The Bay writer Daragh Carville to host opening night of film festival to celebrate centenary of Eric Morecambe

BAFTA and Oscar nominees join northern talent and Lancaster University alumni for the third edition of the film festival with ambitions to transform the northern film industry, as well as celebrating the best of cinema with local communities.

The Bay International Film Festival opens in Morecambe on January 23 with the screening of two films - The Last Laugh and Eric and Ernie.

Guests are the writer/director of The Last Laugh Paul Hendy; the BAFTA winning writer of Eric and Ernie Peter Bowker; actor Damian Williams who played Tommy Cooper in The Last Laugh and Daragh Carville, creator of ITV's The Bay series, hosting the Q&A.

Daragh Carville said: "I'm really looking forward to hosting the opening night of the brilliant Bay International Film Festival, with a celebration of the centenary of Morecambe's favourite son, Eric.

"I'm especially excited to welcome one of my writing heroes, Peter Bowker, the screenwriter of 'Eric and Ernie' back to Morecambe for a screening of the film.'”

Perfect for Eric fans, comedy lovers and anyone who wants to be part of a special community celebration, the gala event will set the stage for the inclusive nine day film festival that has something for everyone from local audiences and film buffs to grassroots filmmakers and established professionals.

Paul Hendy, writer/director of 'The Last Laugh' said: “As a lifelong fan of Eric Morecambe (my wife would call me an obsessive) I am absolutely thrilled that my short film, The Last Laugh is being shown in the prestigious Bay International Film Festival. I'm really looking forward to meeting everyone and chatting through all things Eric!”

A percentage of the ticket sales for the mental health related events and screenings will be donated to Achieve Change and Engagement (a.c.e.), a mental health charity supporting young people in Lancaster, Morecambe, Carnforth and rural areas.

Darren Henderson festival director and co-founder said: 'We're privileged to be bringing our third edition to Morecambe and to have so many wonderful films and events to share.

"We've been working hard to make this as accessible as possible and the support from many different individuals and organisations has been invaluable in making this happen.”

Free tickets and complimentary refreshments are available for many of the events thanks to the support of Arts Council England, Film Hub North, National Lottery Community Fund, Nat Merriman Fund, The Granada Foundation, Eric Wright Charitable Trust, Lancaster University, The Penhale Fund and Reel Cinema.

Tickets can be bought on a ‘pay what you can’ scale including a number of free tickets to ensure the joy of film is accessible to all.

For programme details and to purchase tickets, go to https://www.thebayfilmfestival.com/programme-tickets