Published: March 14, 2008
Burnham-On-Sea Big Issue seller back in the spotlight in new online film

Burnham-On-Sea Big Issue seller Colin Johnstone is back in the spotlight this week after a new online film was launched showing how he has settled into a new home in Highbridge.

Mr Johnstone hit the headlines last year when he was forced to move from his caravan by Sedgemoor District Council's Enforcement Control team.

Film maker Michael Howard published a film on the Internet last year that highlighted the Big Issue seller's plight and he has recently visited him again in his new accommodation in Highbridge. The new film can be seen here on YouTube.

"I stayed in regular contact with Colin since making the first film, and always intended to make a follow-up film. I felt that the first film was unresolved, as it ended with Colin unsure of his future in the caravan, so it was logical for me to make a film about what happened next," Michael told Burnham-On-Sea.com on Friday (March 14th).

"When the council relented and gave him a council flat, it was a real success story for not just Colin, but the whole Big Issue concept, that could be used as an example."

"I wanted to make a film that attempts to remind people not to take basic things in life for granted, such as having running water or a toilet. It certainly had that effect on me when I made it."

"Colin was obviously pleased with the finished result, and I think he would like to thank the people of Burnham-On-Sea for their help, and attention to his plight, as they have helped to turn his life around for the better."

The 60 year-old's plight caught the attention of the national press last year when Sedgemoor District Council demanded the owner of the garden where Colin's caravan was located must apply for planning permission.

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Burnham-On-Sea Big Issue seller's eviction fight gets national attention