New UK film industry awards ceremony to be held in Liverpool

Location Managers Awards UK, an award ceremony that will shine a light on the unsung heroes of the UK film and television industry, is coming to Liverpool this autumn.

Location Managers, Scouts, Studio Managers and Unit Managers, those who shape the visual identity of every production, will be honoured for the first time at the Location Managers Awards UK, set to take place on Saturday, 4th October 2025 at the historic St George’s Hall, Liverpool.

St George’s Hall, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture, located in the heart of the city, has a rich history of being a sought-after filming location. From its grand exterior to the elaborate interiors, St George’s Hall has featured in numerous high-profile productions, including Peaky Blinders, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find them, Batman, The House Of Guinness, as well as the memorable 1980’s Coca-Cola advert, featuring the song ‘I’d like to teach the world to sing’.  

This landmark event is a long-overdue celebration of the talent, creativity, and dedication that goes into crafting the landscapes of UK film and television. The awards aim to elevate the incredible work of those who make the impossible happen—often behind the scenes and without the recognition they deserve.

Georgette Turner, Event Chair & Freelance Producer, (who rose through the ranks of Location Department) said:

“We’re shining a light on the people who make the magic happen long before the cameras roll, location professionals work in all weathers, communities, landscapes and countries and with tight deadlines and tighter budgets, they deliver environments and experiences making stories we all see on screen, come to life.”

Lynn Saunders, Head of Liverpool Film Office, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome the Location Manager Awards UK to Liverpool for the first time. This prestigious event highlights the incredible talent and hard work of location managers across the country, and we couldn’t be prouder to host it in our city. Liverpool’s vibrant film industry and iconic locations make it the perfect backdrop for celebrating the art of location management, and we look forward to showcasing the city’s dynamic cultural scene to the wider industry in one the City’s BEST event settings.”

The judging panel formed of 10 location personnel, met on 29th July 2025, to short list the nominees. The incredible panel from all over the UK have a collective 200+ years of industry experience, is made up of Georgette Turner (Event Chair), Kevin Bell, Richard Ruck, Ian Pearce, Asha Sharma, John Rakich, Angus Macdonald, Spike Davies, Iggy Ellis and Joel Cockrill.

And the nominees are..

Michael Harm Supervising Location Manager Award – Honouring the leader who balances creative vision with logistical and budgetary demands.  

Nominees: Dan Connolly | Gladstone | David Kellick | Harriet Lawrence |  

Alex Gladstone | Helene Lenszner | Christian McWilliams |

Terry Blyther Location Department Award – For a location department or studio team that exemplifies excellence and collaboration.

Nominees: 

Gary Pickering & team – Mr Bates, The Post Office

Tony Hood & team – Bridgerton 

Ian Pollington & team – Slow Horses

Andrew Bainbridge’s/Mark Valentine & team – Funny Women, World on Fire

Neil Grigson Studio Unit Manager Award – Celebrating the behind-the-scenes hero who keeps productions running smoothly, from logistics to safety.

Nominees: Simon Crook | Drew Payne | Duncan Newland | Dean Sinocola

Liverpool Film Office Rising Star Award – A jury-selected award recognising emerging talent in the locations world.

Nominees: Alex Tridmas | Laura Wilkinson | Emily Turnball

Andre St John Unit Manager Award – This award goes to someone who is the heart of any production, truly first in and last out usually slightly smelling of diesel. This person keeps every production going tirelessly, thanklessly and effortlessly.

WINNER – MARTIN WALKER – Kingsman Secret Service, World War Z, Guardians of the Galaxy, Rocketman, The Little Drummer Girl.

Fred Kelly Lifetime Achievement Award – Paying tribute to a career of outstanding contribution to the locations industry. 

The winner has been chosen by the jury will be announced on the night.

The UK Location Managers Awards are actively welcoming sponsors, and volunteers

The event promises to be a vibrant celebration of the people and teams who have shaped the visual storytelling landscape of the UK for decades — finally giving credit where it is long overdue. 

For more information, head to the Location Manager Awards website.

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