Darlow Smithson co-founder quits

John Smithson, the co-founder and chief executive of Darlow Smithson Productions (DSP), is to leave the company along with two other senior executives.

Smithson, creative director Tom Brisley and managing director Iain Pelling are quitting the firm to "return to their indie roots".

Their exit comes 18 months after factual production outfit DSP was acquired by Endemol UK from IMG Media in a combined deal with Benidorm maker Tiger Aspect.

After co-founding DSP in 1988, Smithson guided the firm to a solid reputation as a factual producer, making hit shows such as Channel 4's The Falling Man and The Diary of Anne Frank for BBC One. He also produced the Oscar-nominated feature film Touching the Void.

Smithson now intends to form a new independent production company with Brisley and Pelling, with more details to follow shortly.

"Tom, Iain and I have a burning desire to return to our indie roots after five years under super-indie ownership and we are excited by the creative challenges ahead," said Smithson.

"We are incredibly proud of DSP, its reputation and its large and talented team."

Endemol UK chief executive Tim Hincks added: "John and Tom are exceptional creative minds with a track record that speaks for itself. We wish them and Iain all the very best with their new venture."