The East Anglian Film Archive, the first and largest Regional Film Archive in England, was established in 1976. Since 1984, EAFA has been owned and operated by the University of East Anglia, Norwich (UEA), to support research and work to preserve our moving image heritage. More than 250 hours are freely available online as examples of the wide range of film which attracts interest the world over.
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Butlins Keep Fit and Exercise
With war over, Butlin's was back in business. Happy campers were keen for a taste of fresh air and exercise - with all ages, shapes and sizes limbering up and letting their hair down!
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Overview
The post war focus on fitness meant Butlin's formula of bon ami, full schedules of entertainment and active participation for all the family was a popular draw to their coastal camps. Encouraged by enthusiastic and well toned trainers - no 'Redcoats' in sight as yet, families joined in the stretching, twisting, jumping and hopping to much hilarity.
It was William King, a businessman from Cambridge we have to thank for this film of fun and frolics at Butlins. William had a holiday house at nearby Holland-on-sea and, as an enthusiastic amateur film maker, would visit Butlins at Clacton to film campers participating in events. These films were then screened at the Camp as part of the entertainment.
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