AN organisation which has funded hit TV and movie productions filmed in Keighley has unveiled major growth plans.

Screen Yorkshire has hired a strategic development executive, Caroline Cooper Charles, as it gears-up for the next phase of its programme to establish the county as a world-class centre for screen industries.

She will head the setting-up later this year of a new film office and explore additional opportunities to help the agency deliver an ambitious five-year plan for further developing the sector.

“I have long been a fan of Screen Yorkshire,” she said.

“Since it was established in 2002, it has been a pioneer in its field, constantly evolving to adapt to changes in the industry – delivering great results and garnering a huge amount of respect in return.

“I’m really excited to be joining chief executive Sally Joynson and the Screen Yorkshire team for this important next phase of its development, and look forward to helping the business grow further and deliver against its plans.”

Screen Yorkshire was formed as part of the original Regional Screen Agencies network.

Over the years it has helped bring countless TV and film projects to life, whilst developing the region’s screen infrastructure and talent base.

Figures from the Office of National Statistics show that between 2009 and 2015, screen industries in Yorkshire and the Humber grew faster than anywhere else in the UK – including London and the south-east.

The agency provides production financing through its Yorkshire Content Fund.

Since the fund was launched in 2012, it has supported 40 film and TV projects.

They include several productions shot on the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway and at historic Dalton Mills in Keighley, such as The Great Train Robbery, Peaky Blinders, Testament of Youth and Swallows and Amazons.

Screen Yorkshire also works with Creative Skillset to develop regional and UK-wide talent, by designing and delivering industry schemes such as Bootcamp and Triangle.

The latest appointment is welcomed by Mrs Joynson.

She said: “Caroline is a well-known industry figure with a wide understanding of screen business and an impressive track record for delivering.

“She understands Screen Yorkshire, shares our passion and vision and will be a cornerstone of our plans to establish Yorkshire as a screen industries hub of international significance.

“Her appointment marks the beginning of Screen Yorkshire’s new journey and is one of a number of appointments I’ll be looking to make as we move forward with our ambitious proposals.”

The agency’s growth plan was developed with support from the British Film Institute and 14 partner organisations.

Its aims include further developing skills and talent within the industry workforce and building top studios.

Underpinning the strategy will be the new film office, which will offer expert advice and support.