Preston feature film to premier

Preston was chosen for its diverse population

A feature film that was set and produced in Preston is to premier at The Trafford Centre on Tuesday.

Chicken Tikka Masala is a comedy about a gay Asian man who is desperate to avoid going through with an arranged marriage without upsetting his parents.

Preston-based producers Seven Spice Productions say it deals with race, sexual orientations and family ties.

They say the city was chosen for its diverse multicultural population, rich heritage and local talent.

Steven Jones, Preston City Council's director for regeneration, community and leisure services, said: "We're pleased to support Chicken Tikka Masala, it's great that a film has been made right here in Preston.

Preston has a thriving and vibrant population Producer Rony Ghosh

"Preston is proud of its multi-cultural community and the film raises important issues that link in with work we've been doing on cultural diversity in the city."

Rony Ghosh, one of the film's producers, said Preston had much to be proud of.

"Preston - England's newest city - has a thriving and vibrant population.

"We're pleased that the film fits in with the council's plans to promote cultural diversity and we've enjoyed working with the council and other local organisations to produce this film."

The film stars former Coronation Street actor Chris Bisson, Zohra Sehgal who has starred in Bend It Like Beckham and Anita and Me, and Egerton schoolgirl Katy Clayton.