A special event organised by Chingford Historical Society (CHS) last week attracted civic leaders, former members of Acorn Films, relatives of the late filmmaker David Piggott and community organisers from across the borough, writes Theresa Reynolds
Chingford residents turned out in force last week for a packed celebration of 75 years of Acorn Films.
It was a special event organised by Chingford Historical Society (CHS) which attracted civic leaders, former members of Acorn Films, relatives of the late David Piggott and community organisers from across the borough.
Held on Thursday, 15th October at the Church of England Junior School in Shaftesbury Road, the evening carried special significance: the date marked the anniversary of the death of David Piggott, the unmistakable voice of The Chingford Newsreel and the man who led 55 years of filming, commentating and chronicling community life.
The Mayor, Cllr Marcelo Hart-Camus, attended alongside Cllr Sue Wheat, joining a hall filled to capacity. Speaking at the end of the programme, Mayor Hart-Camus led a minute’s silence in honour of Piggott’s extraordinary contribution to Chingford’s cultural memory – from annual screenings at the Assembly Hall to showings in residential care homes and community organisations across the area.
The evening also saw the launch of From Little Acorns – the legacy of Acorn Films & The Chingford Newsreel, the new book by local author Theresa Reynolds.
Demand for the book was so high that the entire print run sold out instantly. A hardback edition is currently being prepared for release in local bookshops before Christmas.
Audiences were also treated to the premiere screening of filmmaker Linda McDonald-Cairns’ new documentary, a tribute to the film unit which blends restored newsreel footage with interviews from those who appeared in – or were closely connected to – Acorn’s productions.
The film, also commissioned by CHS, was met with enthusiastic applause. It is hoped that it will be of great value to local schools and colleges plus community groups and societies, interested in learning more about local and social history.
Chair of the Chingford Historical Society, David Boote, said the response had exceeded expectations. “We were delighted with the turnout for this event. The hall was full to capacity and there was high demand for the livestream screening.
“With emphasis on the legacy of Acorn Films, we hope more people will come to learn about the film unit’s incredible work and see its value. We look forward to the release of the hardback edition of Theresa Reynolds’ book – and to receiving enquiries from teachers and community organisations interested in watching Linda McDonald-Cairns’ film – and discovering more about the Acorn archive.’
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