Memories from yester-year feature as part of a new project that is showcasing South Lowestoft’s past, present and future.
A new video poem has been produced to celebrate South Lowestoft as the history of the Kirkley area takes centre stage.
Shops and businesses past and present have been celebrated in the new video poem, which has been written and created by Dean Parkin and produced by Poetry People’s Naomi Jaffa.
Entitled 'Spread a Little Kirkleyness', it has been commissioned by East Suffolk Council under the London Road, Lowestoft High Street Heritage Action Zone, and is the sequel to Poetry People’s Right Up Your Street that Mr Parkin was commissioned to create last autumn focusing on the town's High Street and Scores.
After asking shopkeepers and residents for stories of South Lowestoft via social media earlier this year, to help create a video poem that would bring to life the heritage and spirit of the seaside end of his hometown, Mr Parkin said the response had been overwhelming.
He said: “We ended up with almost 50 pages of memories and comments about South Lowestoft.
"It shows how much this area is cherished.
“I was struck how there's a real village feel to Kirkley these days.
"People love working and living there.
"It's definitely on the up and the entrepreneurial and community spirit of 'Kirkleyness' is spreading!”
Supported by Joshua Freemantle, who is responsible for the filmed content, the soundtrack has been created by pianist and composer Maurice Horhut.
Spread a Little Kirkleyness showcases iconic shops – like Hailey's department store, Reg Regis Sports & Toys and the Gibbs brothers – along with long-established businesses like Bushells Bakery and Parrs Model Shop who’ve been there for over 60 years, plus the ever-increasing range of new independent shops.
The video poem also features Kirkley characters like Desmond Baldry.
Producer Naomi Jaffa said: “Local support for Spread a Little Kirkleyness has been just wonderful – at least 25 independent shops and businesses immediately said ‘yes’ to taking part."
Featuring more than 80 archive photographs alongside contemporary film footage, some of the photos have never been seen before and Poetry People are grateful to Bert Collyer, Robert Whybrow and the family of the late Jack Rose for permission to use the images.
Craig Rivett, East Suffolk Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for economic development, said: “This is an excellent way to celebrate the unique heritage and atmosphere of Kirkley and it is heartening to see that so many local independent businesses, for which the area is renowned, have given their support to this special project”.
Tony Calladine, regional director at Historic England (East of England), said: “I’m looking forward to seeing (and hearing) South Lowestoft celebrated in this evocative new video poem.
"It’s wonderful to see local people buzzing with memories and ideas and collaborating with creative partners to create this special snapshot of local life past and present.
"I’m sure that pride, energy and enthusiasm will generate a real sense of place and inspire people to discover more about the history on their doorstep.”
Mr Parkin added: “I hope Spread a Little Kirkleyness will be a pleasure for viewers everywhere."
The 14 minute video poem - 'Spread a Little Kirkleyness' - was launched online on Thursday, July 29 via Poetry People’s Facebook page followed by a live screening on Poetry People’s YouTube channel, where it now remains permanently available.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here