A SPECIAL effects firm – which has provided the backdrops for stars from Anthony Joshua to Mariah Carey – is expanding its horizons still further.

Special effects and laser experts BPM, based in Dunnockshaw, near Burnley, has announced it is opening a work office at Media City, in Salford.

Bosses hope it will cement their reputation as a world-leading player in the field, as well as placing them at the heart of the north-west media industry.

Last year the company, which converted the former Oak Mill into a 47,000 square foot facility for their outfit several years ago, supported stage shows by the likes of Carey, Rihanna, Snow Patrol and Jess Glynne.

And their expertise was also called upon when Joshua defended his IBF, WBA, WBO and IBO crowns, when he was accompanied to the ring by a variety flame projections and pyrotechnics developed on the Burnley-Rossendale border.

Such input can range from indoor and outdoor lasers to confetti arrays, streamers, and bubble, cryo and streamer effects.

Managing director Adam Murray said: “From the point of first contact with clients, through to the design team creating the brief, full animated pre-visualisations, to warehouse prep and finally onto the project managers and head technicians who run in and produce the high-end show requirements, everything is considered and provided.

“The client feels in control of what they want to produce and achieve from day one, they are in control of their vision.

“We look forward to expanding our operations to Media City and being part of its world-class facilities and community.”

Their client roster has also included major broadcasters such as the BBC, ITV, Sky Sports and Channel 4, leading productions companies such as Endemol, Tiger Aspect and Viacom and festivals ranging from Wireless to T In The Park, and Leeds and Reading, to the NME’s Big Gig.

Out in Media City, their office will be part of the three-storey Greenhouse complex, a creative hub which will get them closer to their TV client base.