Old films reveal glories of Renfrew’s proud past
Kenneth Speirs
People are being given a brilliant opportunity to see a collection of old films.
They were taken in Renfrew or nearby from 1935 onwards and feature everything from royal celebrations to football matches.
Richard Weeks, who is Renfrewshire Council’s man responsible for film archives, said: “Renfrew has a fabulous collection of old films – possibly the finest for a town of its size in the whole of Scotland.
“The earliest film is the 1935 Coronation of King George V. Many of the important civic occasions such as the Triennial Salmon Outings have been documented as have the World War II Victory Games.
“The records owe a great debt to local resident Jack Miller who filmed the trams, the old Renfrew Ferry and the famous Babcock boilers.
“He also filmed the iconic shot of th cows crossing in front of Renfrew Town Hall on their way to milking.”
Mr Weeks added that the films of the 1960s are particularly interesting.
“Renfrew make the Junior Cup final at Hampden,” he said.
“The old folks are taken doon the watter and the Queen visits Renfrew Town Hall.”
There is a chance to delve into the past and see these scenes and many more during Renfrew Gala Week, which is now hosting its fourth film night at Renfrew Town Hall on Thursday, May 31, from 7pm to 9pm.
Musical accompaniment will be provided by Renfrew Burgh Band.
Tickets for the event are free and can be collected from the town hall.