London, Dec 16 (IANS): Elizabeth Karlsen and Stephen Woolley, the pair behind the Number 9 Film of "Carol" fame are to receive the outstanding British contribution to cinema award at next year's British Academy Film Awards ceremony, organised by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA).

The BAFTA awards ceremony will be held on February 10, 2019, according to hollywoodreporter.com.

Married since the early 1990s, Karlsen and Woolley set up Number 9 Films in 2002. The banner has since been behind more than 20 features, including "Made in Dagenham", "Carol", "Youth", "The Limehouse Golem and Collette", and has earned 52 BAFTA nominations in total.

It is currently working on "So Much Love", about British singer Dusty Springfield, being written and directed by Carol scribe Phyllis Nagy.

"Elizabeth and Stephen are two of the UK's leading producers whose contribution to the British film industry over the last four decades is outstanding," said BAFTA film committee chair Marc Samuelson.

"Their commitment to producing independent films in the UK which breaks down barriers and connects with audiences internationally is an inspiration to us all. The success they have enjoyed is testament to their passion and excellence in filmmaking and we're delighted to award them the outstanding British contribution to cinema award."

Woolley and Karlsen are ecstatic about the honour.

"We are both extremely honoured to be given this prestigious award. Just to be mentioned in the same breath as Michael Balcon is special. We would like to thank BAFTA for recognizing the importance of independent producers in the UK and thank everyone involved," they said in a joint statement.

Their individual careers as producers too have been prolific.