A nostalgic 1963 BBC film featuring the old Somerset & Dorset railway line from Evercreech to Burnham-On-Sea has been released on DVD this month – with wonderful old scenes of Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge.
In a special arrangement with the BBC, Kingfisher Productions has released on DVD for the first time a 26-minute film by Sir John Betjeman produced and screened in 1963.
Roger Hardingham of Kingfisher Productions told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Sir John became famous for his love for railways and defending Victorian architecture.”
“In the year of the Beeching Report, the BBC made this film which was written and presented by Sir John travelling on the train from Evercreech all the way to Highbridge and on to the former Burnham-On-Sea railway station.”
“The film includes scenes at most of the stations along the line and a walk around Highbridge Works and Burnham-On-Sea.”
“It’s a totally unique look at this long-lamented branch of the Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway.”
Roger adds: “One thing that struck me watching this was that even in 1963 things he was saying would come true. As an example, he said we will need the railways in the future because our roads are getting snarled up with traffic – and look what’s happened in the decades since!”
“The footage around Burnham-On-Sea in 1963 is wonderful – he walks around the station, explains the station, visits Burnham beach and looks at some of the hotels and guesthouses at the time. Some things haven’t changed.”
“The film has lots to interest interest local people. It’s a wonderful step back in time.”
The DVD is on sale at £12.95, and can be purchased here.
The DVD is on sale at £12.95, and can be purchased here.
