The University of Bolton is hosting a star-studded writers' conference next week with some of the North West's top writers and producers.
The two-day Northern Student Scriptwriters Conference, run by the universities of Bolton and Huddersfield, will be held on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 March.
The first day of the conference, at the University of Bolton, deals specifically with film and television writing.
In Bolton, speakers and workshop leaders include Jimmy McGovern (creator of Cracker, The Street), Mark Herman (Writer/Director of Brassed Off, Boy in the Striped Pyjamas), Carolyn Reynolds (Lime Pictures), Paul Abbott (of AbbottVision and creator of Shameless), Barry Ryan (Head of Production WarpX), David Thacker (Director of the Octagon Theatre), BBC Writersroom, and representatives of Conker Media (a digital production company).
The University of Bolton will also be launching its new writing/producing training programme, Writers'Lab@Bolton|.
The University has had 80 applications for the 16 places available for writers who want to develop their skills, working in an industry context. Those who get a place will create an original script, as well as learn about team writing and producing. The pilot scheme will put writers into direct contact with some of the best TV, radio and web producers in the region.
The 30 shortlisted applicants are invited to the lunch-time launch of the scheme and will meet some of the industry partners involved with the University of Bolton programme.
The second day of the conference is at the University of Huddersfield and concentrates on theatre and radio writing. In Huddersfield delegates will hear from and work with Sue Roberts (BBC Executive Producer, Drama), Katherine Beacon (Head of Development in TV Comedy), The West Yorkshire Playhouse's literary department, Paines Plough (UK's premiere new writing producing theatre company) as well as other professionals from the scriptwriting world.
Said Creative Industries Co-ordinator at the University of Bolton, Jane Stuart: 'This two-day conference is an exceptional opportunity for undergraduates, postgraduates and new writers to learn about the mechanics of the scriptwriting industry and to participate in workshops and get advice from successfully established writers and producers of new writing.
'The conference ran for the first time last year when more than 200 delegates took part.'
A full timetable of events will also be published here in the near future. Places are limited and must be booked in advance. Conference price (including tea, coffee and lunch): £80, Concessions: £30.
Enquiries can be made by email to E.Spenwyn@hud.ac.uk| or tel 01484 472839.
Pictured: Willy Russell with students at last year's Northern Student Scriptwriters Conference