Somerset Council has launched a pilot project looking to cast the county in a starring role in film and television.

Supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Screen Somerset project aims to boost the county's economy by making it attractive to the film and TV industry.

Councillor Ros Wyke, lead member for economic development, said: "The UK’s thriving film industry is a real opportunity for Somerset to generate income for its communities and businesses, and help put our wonderful and varied county on the map."

The project aims to make Somerset as ‘film friendly’ as possible, supporting filmmakers in finding locations in the county and helping shoots run smoothly so they are keen to come back.

It has set up an online database of Somerset locations and will work with Visit Somerset to capitalise on opportunities for Screen Tourism.

The initiative aims to boost local spend, support jobs, and promote potential long-term screen tourism.

Charlotte Wood, South West region production liaison manager at Filming in England, said: "It's fantastic to have Somerset Council as a member of the Filming in England Partnership.

“The South West has a strong offering to productions looking to film within the region."