The Queen was presented with an honorary Bafta for her lifelong support of the British film and television industry by actor Sir Kenneth Branagh. The star-studded Champagne Reception at Windsor Castle was hosted by the Queen to celebrate 100 years of Film and the 300 guests represented all areas of the industry including actors, directors, writers, producers, costume and set designers, publicists and critics. Amongst those who were presented to the Queen were George Lucas, Billy Connolly, Damien Lewis and ….Kerry Kolbe and Loren Slater – Directors of Barrow based company Signal Film and Media.

 Loren Slater said “We were stunned to receive an invitation to the event and delighted to be able to celebrate alongside so many famous and talented people. It was particularly encouraging that all areas of filmmaking were recognised and that work taking place in Barrow was celebrated alongside Hollywood Blockbusters.”

Bafta Chairman John Willis said: “We should be proud of our industry. The people here this evening represent a vast variety of skills and ground breaking innovation, they have entertained and informed a generation and inspired generations to come.”

He went on to describe the monarch as “the most memorable Bond girl yet” – a reference to her cameo in the London Olympics opening ceremony.  Which raised a cheer amongst the audience.

Director Kerry Kolbe said “Meeting the Queen was really fun and the event was a great opportunity for us to promote what happens in filmmaking in Barrow and Cumbria. We are very proud of our roots here and that Signal Film and Media is able to offer creative opportunities for local people of all ages and especially to encourage the next generation of filmmakers.’