August 23, 2005
Rare historical 1930s film clips of Burnham-On-Sea are unearthed

A collection of rare film footage of Burnham-On-Sea during the 1930s has been unearthed, prompting an appeal for local people who remember the scenes to come forward.

The footage - which includes images from the 1934 Burnham and Highbridge Carnival shown above and the 1935 visit of an RAF flying boat on the right - was filmed by local photographer N. Gobey and shows the town and surrounding areas during the 1930s and 1940s.

North Sedgemoor's Local History Group has donated the rare collection of films to The Engine Room, a Bridgwater-based media organisation. The group entrusted the films to them after hearing about the archive work that takes place at the media centre.

The reels of 9.5mm film have been sent for digitisation so that they can be enjoyed for years to come without damaging the original material.

The content also includes Burnham's Homeguard in 1940 (shown right) and a queue of people at the opening of the Majestic Cinema in 1935 (shown below right).

Now, The Engine Room is keen to hear from anyone who may be in the film or remembers at first hand the events that are shown.

"The original footage has no soundtrack or commentary and we would love to include the memories and recollections of people who were involved or who knew the filmmakers," explained Deborah Richardson.

"We hope to show the restored film in Burnham later this year and possibly create a DVD of it."

If you can help, contact Deborah Richardson at The Engine Room on 01278 433187 during the daytime or 01278 785203 during the evenings or by email at info@somersetfilm.com.

1934

The Burnham Carnival.
The wedding of a Girl Guides Captain at Burnham Church.
The Daily Mirror Eight performing on the beach.

1935

Burnham Amateur Operatic Society presenting the Rose of Araby (right).
Oxford V Cambridge at Berrow Golf Club.
RAF Flying Boat paying an unexpected visit.
The Majestic Cinema opening.

1936-7

Rodeo Riders (shown below).
Burnham Players 'Dinner at Eight'.
Coronation celebrations including the meal in Princess Hall.

1938

Lord Bath opening hospital extension.
Armistice Day Parade.

1939
Burnham's War Effort including gas mask instruction.
War Weapons Week.

1940
8th Corp Home Guard.