The club's 20th anniversary

Surrey filmmaking 20th anniversary 2004

In November 2004 Surrey Border Film & Video Makers had a large party to celebrate 20 of filmmaking. Many past members, film judges and representatives from nearby video clubs accepted our invitations to attend, and St Joans Hall, which had been specially hired for the evening, was packed. Free drinks and nibbles were available on arrival, as an aperitif for the full menu to follow, and then for the business of the evening we all sat at tables cheerfully decorated and with more wine free flowing.

The first treat was a video recap of the past 20 years of club films followed by a tribute to club member Ken MacKay MBE who sadly has just died.

At the interval, tables were brought out groaning under the weight of gourmet food of every variety. What a wonderful job our social organisers had done.

During the interval Sir Paul Holden, who founded the club, cut an enormous cake specially prepared in his honour. Its decorations depicted in exquisite detail his lifetime of filming, and was indeed a work of art. Sir Paul gave a fascinating talk of his video experiences.

After the interval we saw a cine film from the early life of the club. It revealed a remarkable quality of acting, directing and editing which was of a standard way up with the best of what we can produce today even with the advantage of modern computer technology. After a selection of other past videos we came to presentations of various awards to pivotal members and then last but not least Sir Paul Holden himself was presented with a magnificent family coat of arms which club member Alex Dove had had specially commissioned.

The evening will be remembered by members, past members and guests alike as a warm, and friendly gathering based on shared filming interests.