BUDDING film makers from schools, youth clubs and community groups could get a helping hand to fund equipment and training. The Canary Wharf Group has called for applications to the Canary Wharf Film Fund which aims to encourage East End youngsters deve

BUDDING film makers from schools, youth clubs and community groups could get a helping hand to fund equipment and training.

The Canary Wharf Group has called for applications to the Canary Wharf Film Fund which aims to encourage East End youngsters develop the passion and expertise fro film-making which could help them land jobs.

The cash comes from fees paid for commercial filming and photography on the Canary Wharf estate which has been used as a location for Batman Begins, Basic Instinct 2, Top Gear and The Apprentice.

The Fund is not directly backing individual film projects and preference will be given to applications from registered charities and schools to cover capital costs for equipment, training, education or production.

Howard Dawber, who is Strategic Advisor at Canary Wharf Group said: "We have some tremendously creative people in East London. The face of media, including film, is changing so rapidly. Hopefully we can help give our youngsters the opportunities to keep pace and put their creativity to use in the commercial world."

Details of how to apply are available from hamish.mcdougall@canarywharf.com