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The cast and crew of a new big-budget American drama will touch down in Wales this March, building on the country's reputation as a go-to film and TV location.

The Bastard Executioner – a period drama which tells the story of a warrior knight - is the latest project from Kurt Sutter – whose previous hit show Sons of Anarchy gained enormous critical acclaim and set ratings records during its seven-year run in the US.

Related:18 of the best films ever filmed in Wales (and one that definitely wasn't)

The programme’s makers have spent 10 months considering locations in Wales with the help of the Welsh Government’s Wales Screen service, which encourages film and television productions to use locations, crew and facilities throughout Wales.

With drama productions supported by the Welsh Government spending over £45m in Wales last year, it is hoped the production will bring significant economic benefits both during filming and subsequently to the tourism industry.

See some of the other movies and television shows filmed in Wales

Economy Minister Edwina Hart, who met with the makers while they were visiting potential locations in Wales, said: “This is excellent news for the creative industries sector and for the Welsh economy in general and follows on from several successful programmes which have been filmed in Wales recently.”

The Bastard Executioner tells the story of a warrior knight in King Edward III’s charge who is broken by the ravages of war and vows to lay down his sword – but when that violence finds him again, he is forced to pick up the bloodiest sword of all.

See these pictures of hit drama Sherlock filming

Ms Hart added: “The fact so many production companies are choosing Wales is testament to our beautiful landscape, wonderful historical assets and our highly-skilled and dedicated workforce that make our nation an excellent place to produce high quality drama.”

Meanwhile, yesterday a number of internationally-acclaimed US film and TV production talent and executives will be arriving in Cardiff to pass on their expertise to a host of lucky Welsh film and TV producers and graduates, at a series of masterclass events.

See our top 10 Welsh filming locations from BBC show Doctor Who

Welsh independent production companies Fiction Factory, Severn Screen and Freewheeling Films are hosting masterclass events at St David’s Hotel in Cardiff Bay, aimed at supporting and developing Welsh drama production.

Ed Thomas, director of Fiction Factory, the company behind Hinterland said: “One of the most important factors in the continued growth of film and TV production in Wales is the development of our creative talent.

“The idea behind this series of masterclass events is to hear from the experts themselves and further understand what’s required to break in to the US markets.”