A new senior film manager has been appointed to oversee the running of Bristol-based film and television studios The Bottle Yard and the Bristol Film Office.
Laura Aviles, who was hired by Bristol City Council, will be responsible for managing the delivery of the local authority’s filming strategy and promoting Bristol as an “outstanding film location”.
Laura, a production specialist with more than 25 years industry experience, will also work to bring the studio and film office “closer together”.
She has worked for a number of broadcasters and production companies including ITV, Tigress Productions, BBC Bristol and BBC Earth Productions - a subsidiary of BBC Worldwide - and Mustang Films.
"Having built my production career in Bristol producing content for many different commissioners and channels, I’ve worked with and witnessed the skills and professionalism of Bristol crew and facilities companies first-hand," said Laura.
“I’ve watched the city’s reputation for filming rise, due in no small part to the hard work of the small teams at The Bottle Yard Studios and Bristol Film Office. I’m delighted to take on this new role.”
Cllr Craig Cheney, deputy mayor for finance, governance, performance and culture, said: “I welcome Laura to the team and look forward to working with her to build on the successes of The Bottle Yard Studios.
“The film and TV sector is one of Bristol’s fastest-growing business areas and the studios play a vital role in this growth.
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"As we drive the economic recovery of the city both the studio and the industry will be crucial to securing jobs and investment in Bristol.”
Last week the Royal Television Society of the West of England announced the Bottle Yard had won its Sir Ambrose Fleming Memorial Award for 2020, recognising the studio’s contribution to television in the region.
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Presenting the award at an online ceremony, mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees said: “Over the past 10 years [the Bottle Yard] has become globally recognised as a studio complex for all forms of production and an important part of the flourishing creative sector within Bristol.
“For the city council it has been an incredible opportunity to evidence the scale of commitment we have to the creative sector. This commitment has paid off in so many ways and huge thanks needs to go to the team for all the work they have done.”
The Bottle Yard Studios reopened for production in mid-June after publishing ‘Covid-19 Site Operating Procedures’, which it said it drafted in line with government policies and industry guidance.