Bristol is to have its own film officer in a bid to exploit the city's popularity as a location for TV series and movies.

David Shepheard who will take up his new post in January has worked as a producer in film and television.

He is currently head of business development for Screen East, a regional film agency based in the east of England.

He has also worked in local authorities as a theatres and venues manager.

Only Fools and Horses was filmed in the city

Bristol has been the location for many TV dramas, including Shoestring, Casualty, Teachers, Only Fools & Horses, Without Motive, The Young Ones and I Saw You.

Mr Shepheard said: "Bristol is a vibrant cultural city and home to a dynamic and widely acclaimed media industry.

"It's also a popular location choice for film-makers.

"This is an exciting opportunity and I'm looking forward to setting up this support service for local film and TV companies and help enhance Bristol's reputation."

Councillor Helen Holland, deputy council leader, said: "The film and media industry is one of the city's biggest cultural assets.

Film-friendly

"This new post is vital as we seek to boost our bid to be capital of culture in 2008."

Caroline Norbury, chief executive of South West Screen, said: "The city council has made a tangible commitment to putting Bristol on the map as a film-friendly city.

"We look forward to working in partnership with the Bristol film officer to promote this vibrant and diverse city to film makers."

The new post is funded by the city council in partnership with South West Screen and the Regional Film Agency.