A BUDDING film-maker is hoping to win over the judges at a European film festival to bag first prize.

Website designer Cerven Cotter, of Colchester, took three of his skateboarding friends on a tour of Colchester, filming them on their boards.

Nightscene lasts just 140 seconds, but despite it being his first film, Cerven has put it forward for the Nikon Film Festival.

He said: “I’m not really sure howNightscene will sit with the judges, but from what I have seen it is the only skate-orientated film in the mix.

“The entire film was shot in one evening around Colchester.

Based on the time available I'm happy with the way it came out, but would re-shoot it all in a heartbeat – you always think you can always do better.

“I shoot with Nikon gear and was doing some research into who else is using Nikon equipment for film-making and through this I found out about the film festival. There are some really strong entries.”

Nightscene features Colchester skaters Toby Gozzett, 20, Jake Bolt, 16, and Joe Cook, 18.

Cerven, of St Johns, said: “This is not a skateboarding film filled with big tricks and body destroying slams. It is about exploring the basic essence of riding a board.

“I have been riding a skateboard for over 18 years.

“I don’t knowwhere film-making will take me. I’m not sure if it is something I would ever pursue as a full-time career, but who knows what will happen tomorrow.

“I have a few ideas I need to work through, but there are certainly more films in my future.”

As well as the film being up for four awards, there is a fifth award for the film with the most public votes.

Cerven has called on Colchester people to get behind him.

He said: “There are very few days left for people to vote, so please go and have a look.”

To see Cerven’s video and to vote go to nikonfilmfestival.com