SHORT films from all over the globe will be given a platform in Basingstoke when the Exit 6 film festival returns.

For the second year in a row, film fanatics will descend on the Top of The Town, with films and talks being held at various venues.

The festival is a celebration of independent short film from around the world, providing a platform for filmmakers to showcase and discuss their work, directly connecting with audiences.

After the success of the inaugural festival last year, organisers have pledged to go bigger and better this time around.

Marketing director for the Exit 6 team Amy-Jean Burns said: “We had double the submissions for short films this year, which is amazing.

“it is testament to all the hard work we put in last year and there is already a huge buzz surrounding this year’s event.”

With the main festival taking place on Saturday, 23 September, this year will be a bit different with fringe events taking place around the town in the run up.

Once all the films are shown and judges, BAFTA winning producer Stewart Le Maréchal and independent entertainment producer Diane Pearlman, have chosen their best short film, the party will continue at the Tea Bar, in London Road.

There will be an official after party hosted by Phunky Octopus which will keep the celebrations going on through the night.

Keith Day from Phunky Octopus added: “We want to make an atmosphere that is suitable to the whole festival, giving those who are celebrating their films and chance to relax and talk to other industry members.

“We are hoping the evening will be a bit of a networking event as well as a celebration for another successful festival.”

The event will kick off at 11am at the Red Lion Hotel. For more information, visit exit6filmfestival.com