A new project to help youngsters with disabilities showcase their artistic skills has been paid a visit by Tynemouth MP Alan Campbell.
Beacon Hill Arts, an offshoot of Wallsend’s award-winning Beacon Hill Film Project, aims to offer artists with learning disabilities.
The project is a partnership between Newcastle’s Arpeggio Films, movie-maker Andrew Coats and Wallsend’s Beacon Hill School.
Project manager Will Sadler, of Whitley Bay, said: “Beacon Hill Arts will continue working with staff and students of Beacon Hill School, but we are also very keen to work with other people with learning difficulties and disabilities too by running regular workshops.
“The idea is to operate it just like a production company, so members get real-life vocational experience, work towards a qualification and get their work seen by audiences across the UK and beyond.”
Beacon Hill Arts has almost completed its first production, and the team is also planning to release a music single and video on iTunes.
Mr Campbell said: “It’s clear that Beacon Hill Arts isn’t just about providing educational benefit for its members. It’s also about recognising and supporting them as talented film-makers and artists who make really entertaining work.”
One member, Stephen Thompson, said: “I’ve really enjoyed making and showing my films and music to lots of people and hope others can get involved too.”
For more information, visit www.beaconhillarts.org.uk4 or call Will on (0191) 232 3838.