We went doon the watter...
Film show brings back memories
Memories of happy holidays of years gone by are sure to be revived at a nostalgic film show on Sma’ Shot Day.
Going Doon the Watter has been a popular pursuit ever since Henry Bell launched Europe’s first commercially successful paddle steamer service in 1812, remembers Richard Weeks, who is responsible for Renfrewshire Council’s film archive.
“It probably reached the height of its popularity in the 1950s and 1960s,” he said.
“In the 1960s many people bought cine cameras and of course what do you film but your holidays?
“This has led to an incredible archive of holidays filmed by local people going doon the watter to Rothesay, Dunoon and Arran.
“Paisley Museum has been working with the Paisley Camcorder Club to gather local films about the subject and we have been asked by the Weave and Sma’ Shot festival to put together a show.
“We have worked with the National Library of Scotland Moving Image Archive as well as commissioning work from local writers Alex Cathcart and Jonathan Swann as well as live music from pianist Alistair Ian Patterson.
“The film show is sure to provoke many fond memories, and remind many people of the happy summers before the advent of package holidays.
“We also have rare footage of lots of the steamers which took people on the Clyde.”
There will also be opportunities to reminisce and chat, so people should make sure to bring their memories to Paisley Arts Centre on Saturday, July 7, at 3pm and 7pm. Admission is £2.
Call the box office or 0300 300 1210 or visit www.renfrewshireleisure.com/ whats-on.