THE creator of hit TV series Shameless will be passing on tips to talented Bolton writers to help them get a foothold in the industry.

Writer Paul Abbott is among a group of top professionals who have agreed to work with 16 writers in a University of Bolton scheme called Writers’ Lab @Bolton 2010.

The university is developing the programme with TV production companies in the North West, including Mr Abbott’s company Abbott Vision, Red Productions, Lime Pictures, BBC Writers Room, LA Productions, Made in Manchester and RSJ Productions.

Mr Abbott said: “After nearly 30 years of writing for TV and film, I haven’t lost sight of just how hard it is to get started.

“This project is tremendously exciting for those wanting to develop their skills.”

Writers’ Lab is for writers who want to develop their skills in a media industry context.

Project manager Jane Stuart, said: “We are offering free places to 16 new writers from the North West.

“In return for helping us develop this training programme, we are offering writers the opportunity to develop their skills and get the best possible start.”

Writers will attend workshops at Abbott Vision, The Arvon Foundation and the University of Bolton, and be given work placements.

Kate Rowland, of the BBC, added: “The Writers' Lab is a bold, collaborative initiative that brings together an array of companies, all of whom are committed to developing writers.”

Writers wanting to take part will be expected to be able to work effectively on scripted material from the start.

For details, visit www.bolton.ac.uk/ame/writerslab or email infowriterslab@bolton.ac.uk