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Aberdeen

Explore the growth of Aberdeen’s sparkling streets in this lively and colourful educational documentary produced by Campbell Harper Films for the 'Cities of Scotland' series.

Documentary 1970 19 mins

From the collection of:

Logo for Scotland's Moving Image Archive

Overview

Explore the shimmering granite streets of Aberdeen in this colourful educational film exploring the origins and growth of Scotland’s oil capital, from small ancient burgh to bustling metropolis. Captivating shots and a chipper commentary cover themes including Aberdeen and Robert Gordon Universities, the busy harbour and fish market, industries like Rubislaw quarry and the paper mill and also recreational life at the beach and zoo.

The zoo which features at the end of the film no longer exists. It was founded in 1966 by Peter Scott, the son of Antarctic explorer Robert Scott and was located in Hazelhead Park. Unfortunately it closed in 1977 after suffering falling visitor numbers and financial troubles. The film was produced by Campbell Harper Films which made documentary, educational and industrial films for various sponsors including Educational Films of Scotland, who funded ‘Aberdeen’. The film was shot by Mark Littlewood who formed Pelicula Films in 1971 with writer/ director Mike Alexander.