About Rural Reels

In October 2011, Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) funded a pilot project, involving 10 local communities, using portable projection equipment to show wide screen films in local communities - 16 screenings attracted audiences totalling 1,031.

Finally eight Worcestershire villages became Partners in the project; Ripple, St Peter's Church Malvern, Clifton-upon-Teme, Upton-upon-Severn, Eastham, Castlemorton, Grimley and Hanley Broadheath.  The representatives, under the name Rural Reels Partnership (RRP), decided as a group, to collectively seek Grant support, rather than independent submissions.  A total unique approach.

Some Halls needed “fixed” equipment, because the portable equipment was not totally suited to the venue, eg Ripple due to the comparatively low ceiling.  Others wished to share a set of portable equipment.

Ripple Parish Hall became the Lead Partner, under the Chairmanship of John Bennett.  Initially being responsible for the gathering of funds.  Against original costs of £66,800, £46,500 was secured for stage 1 - the initial installation of the equipment.  This has recently (in April 2013) been completed, and we are now training volunteers to be able to run this equipment for “The Winter Programme” commencing in September 2013, when each Hall will show a programme of films during the winter months.  An official Launch Date has been set for 6th September 2013.

As can be seen from the figures above, our current funds do not cover stage 2 i.e providing funds for Training of volunteer technicians at each site, their expenses, and funding of the first year programme, the Launch Day, Advertising (with associated printing), the cost of DVDs and licenses, etc. This is essential to the on-going sustainability of the Project.

We have received donations of over £3,000 and have applied for additional Grant support to enable us to fund the planned programmes.

It is essential that we pass on our experiences to other communities, and we are anxious to pass on both good and bad.  Also to provide financial support if possible.  The existing Partners have agreed that 50% of ticket sales are to be ploughed back into a central fund to provide for expansion to other communities in Worcestershire, and any maintenance or up-grading of equipment.

If anyone needs further information, the please contact John Bennett on 07767 386148.