THE man behind Bradford's City of Film status has been honoured by the University of Bradford.

David Wilson, director of Bradford UNESCO City of Film, has been named an Honorary Visiting Fellow in Film at the institution.

He has been heavily involved with the university’s Media, Design and Technology department and led the Bradford Film Office move onto campus.

He said: "I am delighted to have been appointed Honorary Visiting Fellow in Film here at the University of Bradford.

“The work which we develop and deliver here in Bradford using our UNESCO status contributes to the success of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network using culture and creativity to drive sustainable urban development. The Bradford Film Office is also based on campus which gives a real vibrant setting for visiting film makers and TV productions but also enables us to encourage a new, diverse and vibrant work force for the UK screen sectors.

"This fellowship demonstrates the University of Bradford ethos of ‘Making Knowledge Work’ in action bringing training and development closer to industry.”

Carlton Reeve, Head of School for Media, Design & Technology said: “This new position recognises our growing links with the Creative Industries and will enable students to benefit first hand from David’s experiences and contacts.

“We are already very privileged to be the home for Bradford UNESCO City of Film and this new position enables us to continue growing the relationship between the University, David and Bradford UNESCO City of Film.”

Mr Wilson represents the city on an international level as part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, and using the UNESCO title, works with many partners to bring film and television productions to the city.

He has a first class honours degree with a focus on culture and regeneration from the University of Bradford and is Director of the Small World Film Festival, the Bradford Family Film Festival and the Golden Years Film Festival.