People Encouraged To 'Get Behind' Large-Scale Filming Project

People are being encouraged to get behind a filming project taking place in Belfast next week.

Up to 2,000 volunteers from across Belfast and beyond are being sought to take part in the filming project, which is being staged in Titanic Quarter at lunchtime on Wednesday 12 September.

There has been huge interest from people right across the city, since registration opened for the special event in the last few weeks, with schools, community groups, businesses and individuals signing up to take part.

In light of recent events in the city, the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Deirdre Hargey, believes this project provides a timely opportunity for people to come together and demonstrate their collective pride in our city.

Councillor Hargey said: "It has been a difficult week for Belfast following the fire at Bank Buildings – one the city's much loved and recognisable buildings, and an important part of Belfast's built heritage.

"What has stood out for me, however, is how we as a city have rallied round the business community and those directly impacted by the fire. We have seen tremendous community spirit among our city centre retailers, and numerous acts of kindness.

"And also we have seen a true sense of pride. Belfast is a proud city; it is resilient, and it is determined to be the best it can be.

"This filming project is a great way of harnessing that sense of pride we have for Belfast and giving people the opportunity to be part of something really positive to showcase the city, and spread the word that Belfast is strong, vibrant and open for business."

Led by Belfast City Council, in partnership with a wide range of city partners, the special event will shine the spotlight on Belfast and the many and varied people that make the city great.

Organisers are keeping their cards close to their chest for now but promise that it will be an energetic event, which will produce a short film to highlight the 'energy of our city and the diversity of its people, creating a real sense of civic pride'.

Councillor Hargey added: "This is a really fun project and a great opportunity for people from right across Belfast – and from all walks of life - to be part of; we'll even throw in a free lunch.

"We don't want to give too much away at the minute because we're trying to keep it under wraps until it is shown for the first time at Culture Night, but it will be a fantastic experience for those taking part and a real talking point."

Susan Picken from Culture Night said: "This is an incredibly exciting project and we are looking forward to unveiling the results at this year's Culture Night."

People from right across the city including, businesses, schools, community groups, youth organisations, sports teams and visitors to Belfast are all being encouraged to take part and to find out more by registering their interest by emailing tellmemore@belfastcity.gov.uk

(MH/CM)