Film project to capture First World War memories

As the centenary of the start of the First World War approaches, a project is underway to preserve memories of the generation that endured so much.

The Yorkshire Film Archive, based at York St John University, is embarking on a new project Filmed And Not Forgotten to preserve its collections.

It will also research and discover the stories of the people on films almost 100 years ago. Who was that sergeant waving at the camera as he marched over Lendal Bridge in York?

What happened at the sports day in Scarborough when the regiments stationed there came together with the community for a day of fun away from the front line?

These films will be brought together in screenings and as an online exhibition so everyone can see and learn about the impact of the First World War in Yorkshire.

“This is a hugely important project for all of us,” said Sue Howard, director of the archive.

“As we approach the centenary commemorations of the First World War, our thoughts will turn to the soldiers, their families and the communities across our region, and how they all experienced the impact of the War.

“Some of those very troops, families, and communities were captured on film, so what better way to mark the Centenary than by researching and telling their stories through our Filmed And Not Forgotten project.”

• The Yorkshire Film Archive is a registered charity that finds, preserves and shows the moving image heritage of both Yorkshire and the North East of England, and has collections of over 50,000 titles
• The archive is committed to providing access to its collections, and has an ongoing programme of regional screenings and exhibitions as well as providing more than 75 hours of content free to view online
• YFA is advertising a part-time post to deliver this project, and you can find out more information here