Open Screen for Dorset communities.

Three Dorset businessmen have pooled their knowledge, experience and resources to launch a community based, online television initiative they’ve called Open Screen.

The project will be set up as a Community Interest Company and an Advisory Network is being developed with representatives from community organisations, charities, education, major agencies, private businesses and social enterprises.

One of the people behind Open Screen is Rob Goodwin of Weymouth who said:

“It’s an idea we’ve been developing for many months and it’s one with real community benefits. Channels will be dedicated to Dorset communities as well as to areas of interest such as education, health, tourism, the arts, business and sport.”

The team has already been in talks with economic development departments and have the support of business advisors at both West Dorset Council and Weymouth & Portland Council. Others have also shown their support for the initiative including regional organisations like Team South West and more local groups such as Weymouth Street Pastors.

Peter Scott, Chief Executive of the Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry said:

“I am pleased to endorse Open Screen. It will be of real community benefit and the range of possible content will be a creative challenge to everyone who gets involved. The opportunities to tackle business, community, family and personal issues is a huge bonus.”

Also behind the project is Dave Fowler, who said:

“The support we’ve been getting is great and we look forward to discussions with other Local Councils and community representatives. To move a project like this forward, we need to work together to deliver the quality and diversity of programming that local people want.”

David Drysdale, the third member of the Open Screen team supported his colleagues by adding:

“We have a really strong team with the skills and experiences needed to take this project forward. Open Screen will provide training to local people and we’ll support them in the production of their programmes. Where programmes already exist, access to the channels will be made as easy as possible. Open Screen will act as a showcase for local talent as well as a springboard for other community and commercial media initiatives.”

Open Screen aims to make its online channels available in the next few months. In the meantime, the team is interested in hearing from individuals and organisations who feel they have something to contribute or who want to know more about the Open Screen project.