Nations and Regions Conference 08

SALFORD HOSTS TOP TV EVENT

SALFORD is to host the 15th Annual Conference, Television from the Nations and Regions, and this year’s title ‘Adapt, Connect, Succeed’ will centre on the new partnerships, models and strategies needed for the future in the ever expanding multi-platform industry.

Mark Thompson, Director General of the BBC, is now confirmed as one of the keynote speakers. He is expected to talk about the BBC’s plans for the future in the nations and regions, and will take part in a debate with conference delegates. There will also be a session looking at Media Cities across the world and the plans for mediacity uk.

The event, to be held on Tuesday 22 January at The Lowry, Salford Quays, is already attracting some of TV’s biggest names, with Dorothy Byrne, Stuart Cosgrove, Ian Hargreaves and Tom Gutteridge just some of the speakers already confirmed, plus Industry expert Steve Hewlett chairing the day again.

Also taking part in the one-day event is Vision and Media’s Talent Manager, Ed Pugh, who will be drawing on his extensive broadcasting expertise to deliver a session in writing for the soaps / continuing drama.

“An awful lot of behind-the-scenes preparation is going on to ensure the Nations and Regions conference is as successful, and as useful, as it has proved to be in previous years,” explains Ed, who is part of the steering committee organising the conference.

“As the only major national event to focus on television from a non metropolitan perspective, organisers are determined to deliver an extensive and exciting programme of events,” he adds.

In addition to a wide ranging set of sessions, delegates will also get the chance to speed-date commissioners from all the major channels, making on-the-spot pitches and proposals.

“The conference really is a brilliant place to network with people in the industry who could make a difference to your future career,” advises Ed. “In particular, the commissioners’ speed-dating event could prove to be extremely useful.”

Bookings for speed-dating can be made on registration, though as places are limited organisers advise to book early.

· For more details and to register for the entire event on January 22 2008, visit www.salford.tv telephone: 01772 767745 or email: salfordtv@glasgows.co.uk