18/03/2008

The Edinburgh International Film Festival has secured almost two million pounds of funding, for over the next three years.

The money - some £1.8 million - is from the UK Film Council, whose chief executive, John Woodward, attended a press conference in the capital yesterday.

Says the Council: “The funding will support the EIFF growth plan for public audiences and industry professionals alike, on a national and international level. It will permit the Festival to continue and extend its commitment to identifying, nurturing, showcasing and promoting new films and talent.”

This year, the festival is taking place in June, when previously it had taken place in August.

Said EIFF artistic director, Hannah McGill: “The UKFC’s Film Festival Strategy has recognised EIFF’s national and international significance and our potential to grow. This support will enable our development, and our ability to make a bigger impact in the UK, Europe and beyond.”

This year’s programme is out on May 7. Industry and press accreditation is open from the 14th of next month.

Pictured (left-to-right): John McCormick (EIFF chair), Ginnie Atkinson (EIFF managing director), John Woodward (UKFC chief exec), Hannah McGill (EIFF artistic director).

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