A KEIGHLEY animation studio has been included in a list of top 100 digital tech innovators for a third time.

Distant Future Animation Studio has achieved the hat-trick of appearances in a list produced by Leeds City Region.

The initiative recognises small and medium-sized businesses that are "digitally transformational, resilient and innovative".

Its latest inclusion comes as the firm – which is based at Parkway House, in Worth Way – prepares to move into new-era virtual production.

The technique – seen in Disney’s The Mandalorian – replaces the traditional green screen backdrop used when filming with a virtual environment, meaning that actors and directors can work in the setting as viewed in the end product.

Distant Future Animation Studio specialises in creating animation videos for the public sector and businesses including manufacturers, educational establishments and digital agencies.

Director Bill Beaumont said: "We’re incredibly pleased to have made the top 100 list for a third time – we’re up there with some amazing companies using their digital tech on a global scale, so to be recognised for the work we create from our studio in Keighley feels really rewarding."

The firm has recently changed its 3D production software, resulting in a 60 per cent drop in spending in that area, which has allowed for the creation of a new permanent full-time position.

"We switched to a programme called Blender and it has revolutionised how we work," said Mr Beaumont.

"We can install it on our workstations at the studio and on everyone’s home devices, making hybrid working even easier.

"Building on this we are moving into the new era of production creating virtual environments on screen for use in film sets, rather than cast and crew having to rely on the green screens. Not only does this give them more to react to, it can speed up the process as elements on the virtual screen can be changed whilst filming – which really opens up possibilities.

"We’ve found some potential production facilities to collaborate with and we can adapt the technique on a smaller scale too, for our corporate film production clients who want to explore virtual production but don’t have the need or budget for a large facility. Visual content has never been more important to connect with audiences and we’re excited to see how both our industry and business develop."

For more about Distant Future Animation Studio, visit distantfuture.co.uk.