For over fifty years, the Friends of Crimea Street Films have quietly celebrated one of the North's lesser known, but highly productive, independent film studios.
Founded in 1973, the Friends exist to preserve the memory of Crimea Street Films, a small Salford-based production company that operated between 1957 and 1966. During its brief existence, the studio produced a large catalogue of northern dramas that captured a changing Britain through the lives of ordinary people.
Unlike many film studios of the period, Crimea Street Films never focused on celebrities or spectacle. Its stories were rooted in terraced streets, market stalls, factory gates, canals, railway arches and the everyday routines that shaped life across northern towns and cities.
Although never really a commercial success, the studio developed a small but loyal following. Films such as The Washing, The Market and The Corner remain fondly remembered by those who appreciate a quieter and more understated style of storytelling.
The studio was founded by Alistair Dunmore, whose belief that northern lives and landscapes deserved to be seen on screen helped define the character of Crimea Street Films. Working from modest premises in Salford, Dunmore assembled a dedicated team of actors, writers and technicians who created films that reflected the world around them rather than the glamour of the film industry. While larger studios chased stars and box office success, Crimea Street Films remained firmly rooted in the streets and communities of the North.
While some would argue if theyhad taken audience enjoyment more into account they might have survived, thereis no doubt that they produced pictures that they firmly stood behind.
Today, the Friends of Crimea Street Films continue to remember them.
Membership is completely free and open to anyone with an interest in the kitchen sink films of that era, the people who made them and the world they captured. Members receive the quarterly newsletter and can follow the ongoing work of preserving and celebrating thestudio's history.
For many years the Friends existed largely through printed newsletters. However, in 2026 the organisation finally established an online home, bringing together members from far and wide who share interests such as post-war Britain, northern culture, film history or the unique atmosphere that surrounded the Crimea Street productions.
Part of the appeal lies in the remarkable cast of characters associated with the studio. Names such as Brian Hollis, June Carver and Basil Henshaw may never have achieved the fame of larger stars, but they were always dependable and enthusiastic.
Each month the Friends focus on five productions from the Crimea Street catalogue. Members can explore detailed film pages, actor and crew profiles, production stills, archive material, contemporary reviews and behind-the-scenes stories. Visitors can even hear the theme songs associated with the films. Who can forget the melancholy of The Canal?
The original poster artwork remains especially popular. Designed by local poster artist Reg Baines, they became almost as familiar as the films themselves and remain among the most discussed parts of the archive today.
The Friends are supported by a dedicated committee of volunteers, including Membership Secretary Ken, whooversees new applications and helps coordinate many of the organisation's activities. Through the newsletter, Postbag and growing online archive, members are encouraged not simply to read about the films but to contribute to the continuing story of the studio and its legacy.
Our Postbag section provides an opportunity to ask questions, share memories and exchange opinions with fellow members. For example, we are still waiting for somebody to explain how Eddie "The Gate" Farndon acquired his nickname. Surely somebody must know, or at least have a theory?
As membership continues to grow, discussions are already underway regarding a Friends of Crimea Street Films gathering at the next Bay International Film Festival in Morecambe. Further updates are expected in the October newsletter to all members.
At a time when so much of our shared heritage risks disappearing, the Friends of Crimea Street Films offers omething simple: a place where people can come together and celebrate a chapter of northern film history.
Membership remains totally free including a downloadable card designed by member Mike Wilson’s wife.
Anyone interested in learning more, exploring the archive or joining the Friends can visit the website and register for membership in a matter of minutes.
More than fifty years after the Friends were founded, the films continue to be discussed, celebrated and remembered.
You are very welcome to join us.
Visit: crimeastreetfilms.org.uk
