Film cameras would start rolling in the region later this year

Me and Ma Gal - based on the novel by Des Dillon - is to be produced by the same company behind the award-winning Last King of Scotland.

The film will be directed by Adrian McDowell, originally from Wigtown, who has already written and directed two short films in the area.

Screen tests will take place this year to select two boys for the lead roles.

The book was previously selected by a World Book Day poll as the most representative of modern-day Scotland.

Casting sessions

It follows two characters Derrick and Gal, a latter-day Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer, through an eventful 24 hours.

Now it is to be put on the big screen by London-based Slate Films.

It is hoped an open casting session for the main parts will be held in April.

Dumfries and Galloway councillors have been asked to provide �6,000 of funding towards the project.

It is estimated a location spend of about �200,000 could be brought into the region by 21 days of filming.