Thompson steps down at BBC Films

Head of BBC Films David Thompson is leaving the division next month to set up a new independent production company.

The company will focus on film and television drama and will launch in 2008 with a first look deal with BBC Fiction. Thompson will also continue to executive produce for BBC Films.

Jane Tranter, controller of BBC Fiction said: "After an amazing 32 years at the BBC, ten years of those as head of films, David Thompson leaves BBC Films with an impressive slate of international and domestic successes and a truly awesome contribution to the film and drama creative community in the UK."

Thompson has executive produced award winning films including Iris, Billy Elliot, Dirty Pretty Things, In This World, Notes On A Scandal, History Boys and A Cock And Bull Story.

His TV credits include Alan Clarke's The Firm, A Rather English Marriage, Conspiracy, The Gathering Storm, Shoot The Messenger and The Lost Prince.

Alan Yentob, creative director of the BBC, said: "Under David Thompson, BBC Films has been responsible for some remarkable British movies and television drama and has consolidated his position at the forefront of British independent filmmaking working in partnership with all the major studios – with BBC Films gathering acclaim internationally."