James Dickson, Activities Coordinator at The Old Vicarage Residential Home, Bakewell, felt that residents needed more stimulation. Resident, Tony Jackson, 84, a big western fan, was shown a short film by James that he had made on his phone, and so then the group decided they should make a film, and OV (Old Vicarage) Productions was born. Enid Cretney 96, requested the film be based on Robin Hood and as Geoff Hinchliffe, also 96, comes from West Yorkshire, The Tale of Robin of Otley, a comedy western set in the wild west of Yorkshire was born. Geoff stars as Robin of Otley (who has a penchant for Yorkshire puddings and tripe!), Margaret Peat 85, plays Millie the Kid, Irene Onion 82, plays Lord Elphus, with Tony Jackson starring as baddie The Sheriff of Otley (using the rifle he has had since he was 10 years old). Tony, along with James, co-wrote, directed and produced the film and appears alongside eleven of his fellow residents in the 40-minute film, which took four months to make.
The film was made on a phone by James Dickson. The residents were filmed in Tony’s bedroom using a green screen and filmed their parts separately. The clips were then edited together.
The film has attracted much media attention, with James and the residents being interviewed on BBC Radio, Channel 5 TV News and on the top drivetime slot on Radio 5 Live. There was a glitzy premiere on 16th October at Bakewell Town Hall, complete with red carpet, champagne and canapés. Demand to see the film is so great that a larger venue is being searched for and another showing is being planned!
The project has been a boost to residents’ mental and even physical health and changed their lives. The residents, along with James, are already planning their next film which could possibly be Christmas themed, so watch this space.
I have been writing the health column for this paper for many years, but I have to proudly confess that Geoff, who plays Robin of Otley, is my father. It can be very difficult adapting to living in a care home, but Dad has always been very sensible. When he began to struggle to live independently in West Yorkshire due to his health in late 2023, I asked him if he would consider moving to a care home near me so that 5 of his grandchildren, his 4 great grandchildren and I could more easily visit. I never dreamed he would be involved in such a project, which has captured the hearts, not only of locals andthe wider public. It is such a heartwarming story and gives hope to all of us that when relatives or even ourselves, need long-term care, there is a chance to try something completely new that brings happiness and fulfillment.
I take my (cowboy) hat off to you James Dickson.
Nicola Rose
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