Contest aims to find new generation of directors

The annual event, which next year will take place between Friday, February 3 and Sunday, February 5, has introduced a new competition for amateur film-makers with the top prize being £500 in cash, as well as the brand new ‘Golden Seagull’ award.

If you fancy yourself as the next Peter Chelsom, the Blackpool-born director of Funny Bones, and want to be in with the chance of getting some recognition for your work then the rules for the contest are as follows:

Entries must be in black and white, less than 20 minutes in length and can be a narrative, documentary or music video on any theme or subject.

There will be a submission fee however, costing £10 or a special discounted price of £8 will apply to entries from a Fylde postcode.

The deadline for submissions will be on October 31 and once submitted, selected films will be shortlisted for screening at the festival, being shown to the paying audience, as well as a special judging panel.

The full programme of films and events at the festival will be announced over the coming months.

For more information on the competition and the festival itself visit www.wintergardensfilm.co.uk or search for Winter Gardens Film Festival on Facebook.