Minchin heads west with Hartswood

Sherlock producer Hartswood Films has hired an executive producer of long-running BBC series Doctor Who to head up its Welsh production base.

Brian Minchin will join Hartswood Films in September to lead drama development at Cardiff-based Hartswood West.

Minchin has been executive producing Doctor Who since 2013 alongside Hartswood’s Steven Moffatt, as well as developing drama for BBC Wales.

His other credits include Russell T Davies’ Midsummer Night’s Dream, plus Being Human, The Game and The Sarah Jane Adventures.

Hartswood West was established in 2010 and has produced all four seasons and a special of Sherlock, as well as the BBC’s adaptation of Lady Chatterley’s Lover, all of which were filmed in the region.

Hartswood Films was established by chairman Beryl Vertue in 1988. Producer and board director Sue Vertue said: “Brian’s brilliance and enthusiasm were evident throughout his years at the BBC and we are delighted that he is joining us at Hartswood Films to develop drama out of our Cardiff office.

“Brian’s addition to the team will help nurture the growing number of quality dramas being produced in Wales.”

Minchin added: “Having been part of so many great shows made in Wales, I’m especially pleased to be heading up the Cardiff office of Hartswood West and continuing to build on the success of drama in Wales.”