AN EXCITING new supporter has backed Bradford district’s bid to become City of Culture 2025 – with an immediate benefit to the next generation of filmmakers by creating a talent development programme.

Internationally renowned film production company Clean Slate Filmz, whose OTT Streaming platform Clean Slate Studioz is Yorkshire County Cricket’s new headline Principal Partner, has signed an agreement with Bradford Council to work together.

The partnership, agreed last week, means film-making workshops will be established and there will be an internship programme for up to 10 emerging content makers.

A fund for short-form content of up to £10,000 will be established by Clean Slate Filmz and Bradford Council will provide match funding.

David Wilson, director of Bradford UNESCO City of Film, said: “Clean Slate has a fantastic reputation and a commitment towards sustaining gender equality within the industry, which is also one of our commitments as a UNESCO Creative City so this partnership is a great fit.”

Karnesh Ssharma, Clean Slate Filmz founder, said: "I support developing the pathway of the next generation of creators and to inspire today’s youth to pursue their chosen careers in the creative sector. I believe this will be integral to the future of our industry.”