Visitors came from across Devon and as far afield as Canada, Australia, Belgium and Ireland to help a moorland town celebrate its annual homage to the big screen.

The Chagford Film Festival, which took place at the end of September, is in its 15th year of bringing outstanding cinema, industry talent and community spirit to the heart of Dartmoor.

Organised entirely by volunteers, the festival has grown into a distinctive and much-loved cultural event, helping to establish Chagford as a respected destination on the regional film festival calendar.

The Festival was particularly poignant this year, following the sad passing of two of the three founder members, Penny Keen and Dean Gardener in the last year.

Remaining founder and ‘powerhouse’ behind the event, Mary French, brought together a largely new team to make sure the Festival could take place, as a tribute to Penny and Dean. “I very much hope we have made them proud”, she said.

“With such a significant milestone and considering that we only decided we could try to go ahead in May this year, I do want to say a huge thank you to the volunteers, sponsors, supporters and audiences who have helped make this year’s festival possible.”

The event boasted more than 30 events over five days plus participation from twelve special guests within both local and international film making - including acclaimed BAFTA Award winning producer Andrew MacDonald, who discussed the powerful cult film ‘Trainspotting’ and why it remains a cultural phenomenon some 30 years on.

Films and events during the week included Pride, 500 Miles, Jo in the Water, American Werewolf in London (featuring a ‘spooky’ walk through the back alleys of Chagford), Quodrophenia, Hamnet and To Sir With Love.

There was also a a filmmakers workshop and a remarkable tribute live act ‘The Essence of Audrey’ with West End actress Helen Anker sharing the story of Audrey Hepburn – with audiences enjoying dressing up and a few special ‘Audrey’ cocktails.

The event is famous for its closing night extravaganza and this year was no exception with Chagford Pantomime group and The Globe Choir leading a fun-filled Peter Pan street party, complete with mermaids, pirates, sea shanties and a crocodile.

“The festival is a remarkable celebration of theatre, film and culture and an extraordinary feat of organisation by the team who bring it together,” said Rosina Kellman who runs the pantomime and choir groups

“It joins people across our communities, as well as our shops, pubs and cafes, many of which participated in the window dressing ‘guess the film’ competition. We loved creating something fun and entertaining for everyone to join in with the street party on the last night – and it’s free!”

Volunteers, home owners and shops ‘dressed’ the town and events took place at the Jubilee Hall, the Church, Endecott House and the Cinema in the Globe Inn, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere and offering something for everyone — from passionate film enthusiasts to those simply looking for an enjoyable and memorable experience.

The festival also plays an important role in supporting the local economy, with the influx of visitors bringing increased footfall to Chagford’s shops, cafés, pubs, restaurants, and accommodation providers, benefiting businesses throughout the community.