A WEEKEND-long event celebrating 50 years since a film was shot in Prestatyn is to be held in the town this summer.

“Holiday on the Buses”, the comedy which was the third spin-off film of the “On the Buses” series, starred Reg Varney and Doris Hare, and was filmed at Pontins’ Prestatyn camp in 1973.

To mark the anniversary, personal appearance agent Richard Coghill has organised a 50th anniversary event in Prestatyn on July 22 and 23.

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NOSTALGIA: 50 years since Prestatyn filming of Holiday on the Buses

NOSTALGIA: The plaque marking Holiday on the Buses' Prestatyn filming

 

 

 

Surviving cast members, crew, 1973 Pontins staff, holidaymakers who were background extras, and fans will gather together to celebrate the film across the weekend.

The itinerary of the weekend includes talks, Q&As, photoshoots with cast and props, a bus tour of filming locations, a viewing of the film, and autograph signing sessions.

Richard said: “We know what this film means to not only ‘On the Buses’ fans, but to the community of Prestatyn, which welcomed film giants ‘Hammer’ with open arms all those years ago.

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Rhyl Journal: Anna Karen (Olive) on a surprise visiting to Pontins holiday camp swimming pool in 2018, back for the first time since filming ended in 1973. Pictured with Craig Walker, On the Buses expert and author.Anna Karen (Olive) on a surprise visiting to Pontins holiday camp swimming pool in 2018, back for the first time since filming ended in 1973. Pictured with Craig Walker, On the Buses expert and author. (Image: Richard Coghill)

“Myself and colleague Craig Walker could not let such a remarkable milestone go under the radar.

“Hopefully it will bring a feel-good factor to the town also in the weeks leading up to the event. There will be lots going on!”

The official website for the event, where tickets for the event can be bought, is at www.hotb50th.com.

Richard is also putting together a “behind the scenes” book about the film, which he hopes to release this summer.

He urged anyone with a story to tell to contact him – “they may have been working at the holiday camp, or staying at the camp with family; anyone, really”.