A FILM club which has operated out of Darlington for more than half a century is embarking on a new era - reaching out to a younger base as it moves location.

Darlington Video Makers Club has been capturing moments and documenting history since 1964 but is celebrating a milestone of its own this year with a relocation to a new base near Newton Aycliffe.

Forced to move as a result of rising rents, the long-established group of amateur filmmakers will now meet at Aycliffe Village Hall from where they will continue to drive forward a campaign to recruit new members.

This has already seen the club raising its profile by taking its creations into communities, societies and groups across County Durham and Darlington, while undertaking new projects which support these organisations.

Arthur Best, club committee member, said: “This is an exciting move. It comes a the same time that we’re seeing all this new thinking.

“It’s a regeneration - we want to attract younger and newer people in with new ideas but we need to give them something to grasp hold of.”

Currently the club is editing a film for the Rotary-run games for people with disabilities which takes place in Middlesbrough every year.

They are also in the early stages of producing a promotional film for the Samaritans.

Mr Best said the group hoped projects that “make a difference” would help capture the attention of would-be members.

“All these things are helping promote activities in the region,” he added.

The filmmakers, who have relocated due to a hike in rent, meet weekly and hold training sessions about video techniques and editing for people of any ability.

They make videos as individuals but often get together to make something more ambitious which can cover a vast range of categories.

According to the committee, it is the only video club of its kind between Leeds and Tyneside and has members from as far as Sunderland.

Chairman Ivor Rose said. “We cover a large area and welcome new members who are happy to travel to our regular meetings. We now have much more room to operate, excellent facilities and all at a reasonable rent.”

Admission to weekly sessions is £2 or £25 for the whole year.

Beginners are welcome to two free taster sessions.

The next meeting is at 7pm on Tuesday, September 12.