FILMING of a highly anticipated new Netflix series on Ilkley Moor is being seen as a chance to showcase the Bradford district to a wider audience.
Blood Origin, a prequel to popular Netflix series The Witcher, was filmed on Ilkley Moor in September. It will be released in 2022.
Cllr Kyle Green (Cons, Ilkley) said: "The fantastic history Ilkley, Ben Rhydding and surrounding areas have as being used as sets has continued with the recent filming of Blood Origin, a prequel to The Witcher.
"The fantasy element of Blood Origin is particularly interesting given the legend of Rombald the giant and his role in creating the Cow and Calf on Ilkley Moor and I will be looking to see if any reference is made to this in the new series."
David Wilson, Director of Bradford City of Film said: “The Bradford Film Office provided location support for the filming in Ilkley, working closely with the council's Countryside and Rights of Way team.
“It was great to see such a huge Netflix production using Ilkley Moor as a location. We also worked alongside the production to get paid work experience for ten students and graduates from the University of Bradford who worked as marshals on film days.
“The show has a huge fan base across the world and I am sure many will want to know more about the range of stunning locations used, including Ilkley and other areas of Yorkshire.”
Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy People and Places, said: “The Bradford district is well known for its inspirational filming locations and its status as the first UNESCO City of Film.
“The many movies and TV productions filmed in the district have already raised its profile and helped to promote and showcase all the district has to offer to a wider audience, so this latest production is bound to inspire more people to visit these stunning locations and support the visitor economy.”
Cllr Mike Gibbons (Ilkley) said: "Netflix is a popular network so any exposure of this kind can have a positive effect on tourism."
Cllr Green added: "Ilkley and Ben Rhydding are already fantastic places to visit with fantastic shops, restaurants and attractions such as the Lido and I hope this show will bring new visitors to both towns. My only ask is visitors treat the moor with care so that future generations can continue to enjoy coming here to visit it (ideally wearing a hat!)."
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