From ship launches at Smith’s Dock to seaside outings at Redcar, Ageing Better Middlesbrough, a National Lottery funded project, has launched a Memory Bank DVD as part of Local History Month.
Produced by North East Film Archive and in conjunction with healthcare professionals, carers and families, the Memory Bank uses carefully selected archive film to connect the past with the present.
John Atkinson, Ageing Better Middlesbrough’s Community Action Officer, said: “We are giving the Memory Bank DVD to care centres in Middlesbrough, like care homes and day care centres, in the hope it will spark hundreds of conversations with some of our most lonely and isolated older people.”
Mayor Dave Budd officially launched the film last Friday (12 May). He said: “The town has a rich and dynamic history and heritage, and archive footage can help bring that past back to life.
“It is a celebration of the achievements of Middlesbrough and its residents, and a great way to bring people together in sharing and celebrating those experiences.
“Ageing Better Middlesbrough’s Memory Bank DVD will be treasured by a great many people as it stimulates memories, creates conversations and helps people feel part of this diverse and vibrant community.”
Sue Howard, Director at North East Film Archive said: “Working on the Memory Bank opens our collections to people who were actually there at the time. It takes people back and they get to share their collective memories.”
One of the first to watch the new DVD, Geoff Kerr-Morgan, 62 of Longlands, said: “It has brought back so many memories watching the film, particularly Smiths Dock.
“It’s great for the community and people living with dementia. There’s nothing better than reminiscing about the good old days.”
Ageing Better Middlesbrough is a Big Lottery Funded project which received £6 million in 2014 to use over six years. It works to reduce loneliness and isolation for people over 50 in Middlesbrough.