A new film celebrating the history, culture and traditions of the River Tweed catchment is set to premiere in Scottish Borders on 8 November.
Funded in part by a £13,600 grant from the Fallago Environment Fund, Our River, Stories of the Tweed has been created by Coldstream-based photographer and videographer, Jim Gibson. Filmed over many years, it is narrated by BBC Radio 4 presenter Paddy O’Connell and showcases the landscapes, legends and lives that have been shaped by one of the most famous rivers in the world. Blending stunning cinematography with vivid storytelling, the film features contributions from a range of local people and experts including historians, archaeologists, soldiers, rod and net fishermen, tour guides, mill workers and former principals from ride-outs across the region.
Film-maker, Jim Gibson said; “I was brought up beside the Tweed and always enjoyed hearing stories about the river. I’ve wanted to make a film about the area for about forty years, taking the opportunity to share the history, myths and legends with others who live in the catchment. I’m sure, like me, there are people living near the Lower Tweed who know little about the traditions and culture of the Upper Tweed, and vice versa. I’m pleased I’ve had the opportunity to explore these traditions and to capture them on film.”
Our River, Stories of the Tweed will premiere at the Heart of Hawick on Saturday 8 November at 7pm. Tickets cost £9 (concessions £7.50) and can be booked at liveborders.org.uk. The film will also be shown at Peebles’ Eastgate Theatre on Friday 16 January at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £10 and can be booked at eastgatearts.com. Further showings in the Borders and north Northumberland are planned for 2026.