A new film and TV company has launched in Ryde, with the aim of telling stories from right here on the Isle of Wight.
People Media Productions aims to "shine a light" on the Island and give young people the chance to get into the film, TV and web programme industry.
It says there are already several broadcast projects being developed for the BBC, Netflix and Channel 4, as well promotional videos for Island-based charities and public organisations.
Tony Steyger
Co-founder Tony Steyger - a former Channel 4, BBC and Maverick TV producer - says the company plans to tap into the Island's creative industry, while working with young people as trainees and assistants.
He said:
"The Island is rejuvenating and rediscovering its ability to harness creativity and innovation. With these endeavours come new ventures, jobs and growth and we're excited to play a part in that."
"The pandemic has hit the mental health and job prospects of teenagers badly so if we can provide some practical support by way of developing career skills and life chances, we will."
People Media Productions has also been co-founded by Barbara Jane Mackie - a screenwriter and former BBC Drama Producer and Script Editor, developing award-winning series such as 'Dalziel and Pascoe', 'Dangerfield' and 'Bad Company'.
Barbara Mackie
She said:
“I’m keen to see dramas set in our rich and evocative landscape and we have a screenplay 'The Last Chance Mommas' which is now ready to film here, as well as the short story ‘Sea Change’, so we are looking for partners.
“There are so many inspiring people living and working here. We will shine a light on characters and stories as a celebration of what’s happening on the island today."
Work for young people will be organised through collaborations with the Isle of Wight College and the Island's newly launched film office, Film Wight.
There are also plans to build a web channel for YouTube, to share the stories of everyday islanders, from firemen to chefs, magicians to midwives, rescue teams to opera singers, kite surfers to farmers.
While teaching TV Production at Solent University, Tony gave his students on-the-job experience of working on projects for Bestival, Cowes Week and for the BBC with Island Pride UK, to name a few.
To find out more you can visit www.peoplemediaproductions.com.