Rafford Village Hall screened two local films suported by Film Forres and Naturally Useful

A full house enjoyed film screenings of familiar times past as part of the 75th anniversary of the opening of a community hall.

Short features ‘Rafford Hall Tales’ and ‘Rafford’s Growing Roots’ were appreciated by the audience at Rafford Village Hall on Saturday, not least hall trustee Anne Garrow.

She said: “We were delighted to welcome several people who were at the opening of the hall in 1950. The screenings were a superb team effort by Film Forres Mobile and local business Naturally Useful, as well as everyone who donated plants, delicious cakes and fantastic raffle prizes.

“It was a great night of friendship and laughter and very much appreciated by the hall committee.”

Rafford's Hall Tales was filmed in 2012-2013 by local filmmaker Tim Flood as part of the ‘Moray Hall Tales’ project. It features Rafford children interviewing older residents about memories of growing up in the village.

Rafford’s Growing Roots was filmed over the last year by Diana Mosterd of Connecting Images and narrated by Forres-based storyteller, Margot Henderson. It follows the project of the same name with its focus on local growers and crafters.

Film Forres administrator and Rafford resident, Ruth Whitfield, was one of 70 audience members of all ages.

She said: “Hall Tales had wonderful stories dating back from the 1950's. They were often funny, poignant, and demonstrated the importance of community life, bringing people together, sharing talents, garden produce and strong community spirit.

“Toddler group and youth club featured - some of the attendees are now in their forties and fifties!

“Several who were interviewed are no longer with us. Their nostalgic and bygone stories could otherwise have been lost.”

A total of £380 proceeds from the film event were donated to Rafford Hall Parent and Toddler Group, Naturally Useful and Film Forres.

The hall’s 75th anniversary celebrations continue with a St Andrew’s ceilidh on Saturday, November 29.

Film Forres Mobile will be screening more films at Burghead Community Hall on Saturday, May 24 ‘Shrek Forever After’) from 4.30pm then Dyke Village Hall (autumn date to be confirmed).