Doctorates for film-makers help city attain star billing in movie industry

The plan was unveiled yesterday at a civic reception at Bradford City Hall ahead of a weekend of events to celebrate the city's designation as the World's first Unesco City of Film last year.

Steve Abbott, chair of the City of Film board and producer of A Fish Called Wanda and Brassed Off, revealed a host of activities and plans to ensure the various strands of the City of Film strategy are met.

Mr Abbott said: "In the long-term we are working with agencies across the district to develop action plans in each of the four areas – enjoy, learn, make, visit – to enable us to achieve our vision.

"It is now time to mark our new status as City of Film and to start to see the benefits for the city.

"Today we have outlined just a few of our bold plans for the future of Bradford and really hope that the people of Bradford come out over this celebratory weekend and enjoy all that is on offer."

Plans include funding for filmmakers and a new doctorate qualification at Bradford University.

A Bradford movie trail has also been updated offering people chance to visit famous scenes from various films.

The celebration weekend – which coincides with the opening weekend for the 16th Bradford International Film Festival – will also become an annual event.

Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor John Godward, said: "We are home to one of Europe's fastest growing creative and digital industries: around 100,000 local people work in the sector already, translating into a GDP of 10.5bn. City of Film is very much at home here."