A 93-year-old figure who had been associated with Bradford Movie Makers for five decades and featured prominently in an award-nominated documentary about the group has passed away.
Colin Egglestone became a member of Bradford Movie Makers in 1976.
The organisation, which was established in 1932 under the name Bradford Cine Circle, has been operating for more than nine decades and ranks among the oldest amateur film-making clubs internationally.
The group served as the subject of A Bunch of Amateurs, a documentary that received recognition during the Bafta nomination process and was distributed to cinemas globally.
Egglestone’s interest in film-making originated during his childhood when his grandfather provided him with a projector.
In an interview published in 2023, he explained that the device was a 35mm hand-cranked model illuminated by a candle.
He began producing content using Standard 8 film stock before progressing to include audio.
During family outings, he would operate the camera, capturing footage at gatherings including picnics and barbecues.
The documentary chronicled the experiences of the Little Horton-based group through periods of both success and difficulty as members worked to sustain their activities.
The film garnered multiple accolades and received enthusiastic responses at screenings, including extended applause and post-show discussions with audiences.
Egglestone passed away without incident at a medical facility.
Fellow members of the organisation have since shared their reflections on his contribution.
Dave Marshall noted that Egglestone arrived the year following the club’s establishment.
Marshall described him as a self-employed woodworker who constructed speaker enclosures for Wharfedale’s Prestige Speakers range, served as an honour guard for Queen Elizabeth during her visit to Germany, and produced dashboard components for Jowett automobiles.
According to Marshall, Egglestone embodied the values that define Bradford Movie Makers, namely companionship, mutual support, and characteristic Yorkshire determination.
Marshall identified him as fundamental to the club’s existence and central to the documentary’s appeal.
He mentioned that a buffet event was organised for Egglestone’s 90th birthday celebration and that commemorative mugs featuring his name were produced for attendees.
Marshall expressed that his absence would be deeply felt by everyone involved.
Judith Simpson remarked on the remarkable steadfastness Egglestone demonstrated throughout the organisation’s challenging periods.
Upon joining, he constructed the projection facilities.
He subsequently held the position of president.
When the premises suffered damage from vandalism, Simpson stated that Egglestone consistently volunteered his time for cleaning, painting and repair work.
Edmund Davies characterised Egglestone as an individual whose presence would benefit anyone’s life.
He was described as considerate, deferential, and deeply committed to Bradford Movie Makers, a name he continued to use despite any alternative designations.
Davies identified him as essential to the club’s functioning.
Joe Ogden observed that Egglestone had been a significant presence at the organisation for more than four decades.
He was portrayed as a reserved individual who worked diligently without seeking recognition, willing to embrace necessary developments while completing essential tasks.
Ogden noted that Egglestone represented a connection to the group’s origins in cine film.
Harry Nicolls expressed the view that Egglestone reflected positively on the organisation.
Nicolls noted that as a newer member entering film-making during the digital era, Egglestone provided a valuable link to an earlier period when physical film stock was the standard medium.
Phil Wainman recalled his early involvement when he nominated himself for the presidency.
He described experiencing some apprehension about this step.
Egglestone approached him and offered words of encouragement regarding fresh perspectives.
At that time, Wainman was the youngest participant while Egglestone was the most senior, and Wainman expressed gratitude for his endorsement.
Wainman indicated that he sought to follow Egglestone’s example.
Kim Hopkins, who directed and co-produced A Bunch of Amateurs, stated that Egglestone represented the vital energy of Bradford Movie Makers.
Upon the film’s theatrical release, substantial correspondence was received regarding him.
It appeared that audiences developed an affection for him.
Hopkins reported receiving messages such as expressions of wanting to reach through the screen to embrace him, observations that the world had improved through his presence, and comments identifying him as a national treasure.
Hopkins noted that individuals across different countries and age groups formed connections with this gentleman who carried a walking stick and wore a flat cap, displaying evident emotion.
However, Hopkins emphasised that what resonated most strongly was his enthusiasm for cinema, which was clearly visible on screen.