A new website which claims it can direct fans straight to film locations using the rail network has been branded a reel flop. Visitors view a map showing productions shot in each region yet only 13 North films are mentioned out of more than 1000 made here. Among those ignored are the classic Get Carter as well as Purely Belter, Alien 3 and Jude. Not only that, it says cult film Withnail and I was shot in Lancashire when it was actually based in Cumbria. And despite its boast that it provides a "fuss-free" rail guide to locations, it advises movie buffs to get off at the WRONG station to see Billy Elliot locations. The www.reeltorail.co.uk venture was set up by Pierce Brosnan's stunt double Douglas James as an easy way for movie aficionados to travel to sites of classic British movies. A spokesman for the company promises: "Reel to Rail offers you the chance to retrace the steps of your favourite film stars. "With on-line ticketing and travel advice available anytime, you can put your feet up and look forward to a fuss-free ride." Paul Mingard, of the Northern Screen Commission, described the site as feeble. He said: "I guess Mr James was trying to make a quick buck but it's annoying that he's not made an effort to put this site together properly. "The list of films is just pathetic and bypasses great films like El Cid, Brazil and Swallows and Amazons. "It says Withnail and I was filmed in Carnforth, but Carnforth is in Lancashire and it was actually made in Cumbria." Only Elizabeth, Harry Potter and The Philosopher's Stone, Billy Elliot, Possession, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and Withnail and I are included in the 13 listed North locations. Newcastle doesn't even merit a mention. The site suggests fans who want to visit Easington in County Durham, where Billy Elliot was shot, should get off at Durham and travel the remaining 20 miles by bus or cab. The taxi fare costs £15. Locals advise you to get off at Seaham, five miles from the location. Mr Mingard said: "Perhaps if he'd ripped off our website he'd have got the information right." V The Northern Screen Commission's website is www.NSC.org.uk V coreena.ford@ncjmedia.co.uk | 
