A Netflix movie that was inspired by the life of a Burnley businessman has won the biggest award of the night at the National Film Awards.

Bank of Dave, which was was filmed in Burnley and other parts of East Lancashire, won the prize for best feature film of 2023.

The film was up against some huge movies, including The Menu, Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre and Breaking Infinity.

It was originally nominated for seven awards, including best independent film and best supporting actress for Phoebe Dynevor.

Lancashire Telegraph: Dave Fishwick with his wife, Nicola, at the National Film AwardsDave Fishwick with his wife, Nicola, at the National Film Awards (Image: Dave Fishwick)

Bank of Dave, which was number one on Netflix’s most streamed movies for a time, loosely documents the life of businessman Dave Fishwick, who began his career selling mini buses in his home town.

In his acceptance speech Dave paid homage to Burnley.

He said: “It is a wonderful award for the team and everyone involved.

“[I got a] call from Hollywood saying ‘Dave, we want to make a movie about your life’ - when you come from Burnley that doesn't happen very often.

“A guy called Piers Ashworth, who wrote Mission Impossible for Tom Cruise, asked me who I would like to play me in the movie.

“We got Rory Kinnear who looks more like me than I do. He did such a brilliant job, the whole cast was brilliant.”

Speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph, Dave said the team “erupted” when Bank of Dave was announced as the winner.

He said: “We won the big award, which was so exciting. It is wonderful to bring it back to Burnley.

“We erupted when the film was announced. We didn’t expect to win as we were up against some huge movies and big Hollywood names.

“It is very surreal. It is sat in front of me now next to a cup of tea.”

Dave said it was important for him to mention Lancashire in his speech as he “always wants to remember where he comes from”.

He said: “You must never forget where you come from or you will never get to where you are going.

“We filmed at my garage in Colne, the bank in Burnley, and my house in Sabden so it was important for me to give Lancashire a mention.

“Without the people in Burnley, or the team at Burnley Savings and Loans, there wouldn’t be a movie.”

Netflix has confirmed that a Bank of Dave sequel is on the way.

Dave said filming is set to start in 2024, with casting possibly taking place as early as September.

He said: “This award has been a wonderful surprise for everybody. Netflix have been absolutely fantastic and now want to follow up with an even bigger movie.”