Cash is up for grabs for local filmmakers through the New Pathways Film Fund as part of the London Borough Film Fund Challenge.

Residents from Tower Hamlets, Hackney and Newham can apply to take part in the New Pathways bespoke intensive training programme created specifically for new filmmaking talent to assist in the preparation of there individual projects.

The 15 successful applicants will learn the filmmaking techniques and be invited to pitch their script, which they will develop through the training scheme, to a panel of top industry judges. The panel will then award six film bursaries of £1,500, with two being awarded to participants from each borough.

Jules Pipe, Mayor of Hackney, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for budding filmmakers to explore the industry. It is good to see the profits made from production companies filming in Hackney, along with Tower Hamlets and Newham, being used to support talented local young people.”

Sandra Collins, Cultural Partnerships Officer for Hackney Council said "The funds play a pivotal role in supporting local filmmakers and we are confident that this new tri-borough partnership will continue to demonstrate the three boroughs support for further professional development."

Councillor Rofique U Ahmed, Lead Member for Culture, Tower Hamlets Council said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for residents who want to get involved in film to learn how to write, shoot and edit their own short movies. This type of opportunity doesn’t come around everyday, so it’s important that people make the most of it.”

The New Pathways Film Fund is a partnership between the London Boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Hackney and Newham and is open to all residents living and working in the boroughs.

Mayor of Newham Sir Robin Wales said: “Newham is an amazing place with many talented people. The New Pathways project is a great example of how creative work between the boroughs is helping to unearth some great filmmaking talent. We want this scheme to get filmmakers expressing their creativity and preparing for a career in a very exciting industry.”

Residents interested in the training programme have until 5pm Friday 5th September 2008 to apply.

For more information on the film fund please contact Stephanie Turnbull, Films Officer, Tower Hamlets Council on 020 7364 7920 or email filmsoffice@towerhamlets.gov.uk putting New Pathways in the subject line. Applications will be available to download from www.towerhamletsarts.org.uk; www.hackney.gov.uk/film and www.newham.gov.uk