Sunderland talent triumphs at RTS Awards

Published on 25, February, 2025

Seven talented filmmakers from the University of Sunderland have been recognised at a prestigious television awards ceremony.

The Royal Television Society (RTS) North East and The Border Student Television Awards were held on Saturday 15 February at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead.

​​​​​​​The awards are given each year to celebrate and showcase the best of television and student production across the region.

Media Production graduate Erin Wilkinson won the student award for best Factual – Long Form for her documentary From Fleece to Fabric, which explores the process of turning fleece from sheep into woollen fabric and delves into the history and heritage of wool, comparing traditional methods to industrial methods of making wool.

Erin, who was presented the award by businesswoman, entrepreneur, and television personality Sara Davies, said: From Fleece to Fabric was a dissertation piece I did all own my own, so I produced, directed, filmed, and edited it.

“This isn’t something that would normally happen for a dissertation as it is recommended to work in groups of at least four, so the fact that I not only got a first for it in my degree, but I have now also walked away with an RTS award. It’s still not sinking in.”

Senior Lecturer Sue Perryman supported Erin throughout the project.

She said: “What was especially impressive about the documentary is the high production values. You could switch on your TV, and this would not sit out of place on something like, ITV’s Made in Britain. This is a testament to Erin’s determination to showcase the skills she gained throughout her Media Production degree.”

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The student award for Best Entertainment and Comedy Drama went to Screen Performance graduate Cameron Mair, from Durham, and Film Production graduates Dylan Drury, from Seaham, Reese Harris, from Durham, Jade Ruihao Wang, from China, and Ian Law and Fionna Lee, who are both from Malaysia.

Their winning film One Foot Out The Door tells the story of a small-town boy who is torn between the woman of his dreams, who brings him the opportunity of a lifetime, and his pregnant sister, who represents his family and his roots

Fionna, who took on the roles of Editor, Digital Imaging Technician, Assistant Sound Operator and Art Director for One Foot Out The Door, said: “It has been a long journey, with multiple reshoots, re-edits, and countless hours in the editing room to refine the film.

“However, every challenge was worth it the moment we were announced as winners. As the editor, I couldn’t be prouder of what we achieved. Huge thanks to our incredible cast and crew, and a special shoutout to our lecturer, Nick, for his invaluable guidance throughout this journey. This wouldn’t have been possible without him."

Senior Lecturer in Video and New Media in Film Production, Nicholas Glean, said: “This marks the sixth win for the Film and Media Production team since 2019.

“It is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and creative talent of both the students and staff. These successes highlight the strength of our programmes and the importance of recognising the contributions made by all in these achievements."

Lee Hall, Head of School of Media and Creative Industries at the University of Sunderland, added: “We are so proud of the students for earning this recognition from the Royal Television Society.

“This award is special because they are mixing with industry professionals who will be their employers, collaborators and colleagues in the future. I hope it reinforces their belief that they can succeed in a challenging but hugely rewarding industry. This will not be the last time they are rubbing shoulders with the stars.”

Teesside-born writer, actor and character comedian Phil Dunning, who penned BBC comedy Smoggie Queens and stars in the lead role, was named Best Newcomer – an award sponsored by the University of Sunderland.

Middlesbrough-shot Smoggie Queens won Best Comedy.