Chairman’s civic reception for young filmmakers

Young people from Cannock, Rugeley and the surrounding areas were highly commended at a prestigious national award ceremony for their groundbreaking film work.

Cllr Gordon Alcott met the young people and their families at a special reception at Cannock Chase Council's Civic Centre in Cannock earlier this month to officially recognise their achievement.

The First Light-funded film RAIL was nominated in the category 'The Young Voice Award' at the First Light Awards ceremony in London. Hosted by Radio 1's Nick Grimshaw, the ceremony was attended by a mix of film industry luminaries and celebrities who presented awards across a range of categories.

The film shows the perils of messing around on railway tracks, dealing with a variety of different issues including drink and peer pressure.  It has been supported by Staffordshire Young People's Service and sets out to show how young people are often unaware of the dangers surrounding them. 

Cllr Gordon Alcott said: "It was a marvellous achievement by the young people from Cannock Chase District to make the shortlist and to be recognised for their work. Their film was one of hundreds that were entered in 'The Young Voice' category. To make the final shortlist of four was a fantastic effort.

"It was a pleasure to meet many of the young people and their families and to congratulate them for putting the District on the map. Their film will help to prevent serious injuries and fatalities on our railways."