Short films produced to showcase the history of Hucknall and rest of the Ashfield District

Ashfield District Council, in partnership with Discover Ashfield, has commissioned talented residents to create a series of short films about historical figures from Ashfield's past.

Creator of Ashfield Art Fest 2021, Claire Finn, was heavily involved in the project, which is part of the Ashfield Art Trail, acting as the script writer, producer, and star of the Ada Lovelace film.

The videos, filmed by Ashfield videographer Tom Cable, offer a unique glimpse into Ashfield's past.

The subjects of the three films are William Duke of Portland , Ada Lovelace, and a Medieval Kirkby local. They can all be viewed on the Council's Youtube channel.

The Ada Lovelace film will arguably be the one of most interest to Hucknall residents as Ada is buried next to her father, Lord Byron, at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, which is in the town centre.

The films can be viewed by scanning the QR codes on the boards displayed at Mill Waters Café at Kings Mill Reservoir. The remaining boards will be installed next to the Ada Lovelace plaque on Hucknall High Street, and on the railings on Kirkby Plaza early next week.

At least five more films are currently in production and will be released in the coming months featuring more hidden figures from the District's surprising history. The films and the Ashfield Art Trail have been funded by the Welcome Back Fund.

Councillor Matthew Relf, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Planning, said: "I am so proud that we have been able to support local artistic talent by commissioning them to star in, film, and write the scripts for these films.

"I would like to thank Kirkby Heritage Centre, Hucknall Tourism and Regeneration Group, and Sutton Living Memory Group for their invaluable help and knowledge of the District's history."

Claire Finn said: "It has been an absolute pleasure working on this project to produce these wonderful historical films about Ashfield. To collaborate with local historical groups and work with creatives from the area has been an enormous privilege. Equally, a rewarding experience to see the talent, passion and community Ashfield has to offer in showcasing it's rich history."