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Welcome to Renown Films
Dear Supporters of Film and TV History,
As I write this, the weather is still warm and the sun still shining. It means a lot to us that during what has been a very hot summer, you continued to watch the channel and appreciate all the great new films and shows, and the many classics, we have broadcast. Fab lollies all round, and a hearty thank you from Talking Pictures TV HQ.
Last month was tinged with sadness, as we said farewell to three entertainment greats. Dame Cleo Laine was the greatest jazz singer this country has ever produced. Her unique and versatile voice, and her partnership with her late husband, Sir John Dankworth, made her a musical legend. I remember working in the film cutting rooms in Soho and a job came in to cut a very simple music demo. I can’t remember the artist, but it may have been Mark Anthony. I edited the film and was told the clients would be in to view – there was some excitement when we heard it was none other than Johnny Dankworth and Cleo Laine. They both squeezed into the small cutting room and were utterly charming. Cleo looked a million dollars and had a wonderful milk and honey voice, Johnny wore a leather hunter’s type hat. Both smiled a lot at the viewing and made a bit of chit chat; it didn’t last long, but left a lasting impression on me.
Our dear friend, Norman Eshley, left us too. Best known for his role in George and Mildred, Norman was at home in both comedy and drama, and has been seen on Talking Pictures TV often, in shows like Justice and Secret Army. He also appeared on the TPTV stage more than once, most recently in St Albans in 2024. Everyone who met him will know what a kind and lovely man he was.
The late, great Ray Brooks also appeared at our live event in Stockport back in 2019, reuniting with Rita Tushingham, his co-star in the classic 60s film, The Knack… and How to Get It. For many, of course, he will always be the voice of Mr Benn, proving his range and versatility.
As you know, I spend much of my working day saving and preserving classic film and television. I want to ensure that the work of fine performers like these remains available for all of us to enjoy.
Speaking of fine performers, this month we have a wonderful audiobook for you, narrated by the wonderful Fenella Fielding. Her autobiography, Do You Mind If I Smoke? Is full of fascinating stories about her life and career and the many interesting people she met. She also talks about striking out as a young adult: living alone, compromising situations… and there’s a whole chapter about London tarts and gangsters. Six hours of stories, all told in that unmistakable and ever alluring voice. To find out more, click HERE
Our new, Limited Edition TPTV ‘Life in the Past Lane’ Baseball Cap is what the cool vintage film fans will want to wear in the sunshine. One size fits all! To get yours, click HERE
The Talking Pictures TV Footage Detectives Travel Mug is the ideal companion, whether you’re out and about, working in the garden or taking a long journey. Our exclusive, limited edition, black and white mug features the classic Footage Detectives logo. For more details, click HERE
Now available for Pre-Order, The Talking Pictures TV Calendar 2026 WILL BE DESPATCHED AT THE END OF SEPTEMBER 2025. It will sell like hot cakes, so get ahead and order yours now! Exclusive to Talking Pictures TV, the fabulous 2026 calendar boasts twelve months of wonderful film and television memories, including the birthdays of the stars. Every one sold helps support Talking Pictures TV, your favourite TV channel! To get yours, click HERE
You can see some of the fruits of my labour in upcoming episodes of The Footage Detectives. On Sunday September 7th at 5pm, we’ll be showing an exclusive, unseen interview with film legends Dame Anna Neagle, Herbert Wilcox CBE and Michael Wilding. They were responsible for some of the most popular films of the 40s. The interview is a gem.
On Sunday 14th September we are joined by rock legend, Status Quo’s Francis Rossi OBE. Francis is also a lover of vintage footage. He would love your help in tracking down film of his family’s ice cream firm, Rossi’s of South London. The episode also features film stars in a rare behind the scenes reel. Belinda Lee and John Gregson feature in this footage from 1950s Pinewood. For all of you many fans of The Wheeltappers and Shunters Social Club, I have uncovered something very special. At the Wheeltappers takes us back to the club, but features one major act per week. And what great acts, or should I say ‘turns’, they are. Magician, Paul Daniels, demonstrates the talent that made him a TV legend. There’s also music and comedy with Bob Williams and the New Vaudeville Band (of Winchester Cathedral fame).
Don’t forget, there are some great opportunities to meet the Talking Pictures TV Team coming up and to see some fantastic rare films on the big screen. Not to mention the chance to meet some amazing stars. We’re back at the Hebden Bridge Picture House on 11th and 12th October, and tickets are selling fast. Joining us will be The Nolans, Amanda Barrie, Sherrie Hewson, Anita Harris, Bernie Clifton, Jimmy Cricket, Julie Peasgood, magician, Mark Shortland and Robin Colvill (of The Grumbleweeds). There’ll be music from The Daisy Belles; and Cheryl Knight is Joyce Grenfell. Steve and Peter Finch will talk about their father, John, creator of A Family at War. There’s a chance to see The Goons on screen, with an exclusive screening, from The Goon Show Preservation Society. Don’t miss out! Call us on 0808 178 8212.
If you’re a collector of film and film memorabilia, mark Sunday November 16th on your Talking Pictures TV calendar now. That’s when The Footage Detectives will be taking over Wyllyotts Theatre in Potters Bar for Saving Celluloid Sunday. The day will be packed with screenings of rare and lost films and TV episodes. There’ll be guest speakers, and lots of stalls selling celluloid and memorabilia – with special event prices! There’s a lovely café on-site, and FREE parking all day! Call us now on 0808 178 8212 to secure your ticket for this unique event.
I look forward to seeing lots of you in person this autumn; and to bringing you more lost and rare films and television episodes. Please keep supporting TPTV, and watch this space!
My best wishes, Noel
Noel Cronin BEM
TPTV Encore on Freeview
Talking Pictures TV is thrilled to announce that our catch up service Encore is now on Freeview. If your Freeview television or set top box is connected to the internet then you will see the Encore logo top right of your screen. When you see the Encore logo simply press the red button on your remote control to be transported to your own private cinema, where you’ll find 100s of films and TV series. All available to watch for free – no TV licence required – and catch up on at any time!
