The Port of Cromarty Firth (PoCF) has continued its support for the Cromarty Classic Film Club with a donation of £1,955 through its Community Sponsorship Programme.
The funding will enable the Film Club to continue its popular twice monthly screenings at Cromarty Community Cinema throughout 2026–27, helping to combat social isolation and loneliness among retired people across Cromarty and the surrounding communities. The award will also support the Club’s growing film library, ensuring members can continue to enjoy a wide range of classic and contemporary films free of charge.
Established in 2021 by retired local GP Dr Helen Charley, the Cromarty Classic Film Club was created to provide a welcoming and accessible social activity for older residents. Operated in partnership with Cromarty Care Project and Cromarty Community Cinema, the Club has grown steadily and now has a membership of almost 200 people, including members living with disabilities and dementia.
Attendance has continued to increase, with an average of 24 people attending each screening, surpassing the Club’s target of 22 attendees per film. The fully accessible cinema provides subtitles for those with hearing impairments, while carers have highlighted the Film Club’s value as a regular social outing and source of support for both themselves and those they care for.
The project provides more than entertainment. By offering a welcoming space for people to meet, particularly during the winter months, the Film Club plays an important role in improving wellbeing, reducing loneliness and supporting mental health across the local community.
Helen Charley, Co-ordinator of the Classic Film Club, said: “We are extremely grateful to the Port of Cromarty Firth for its continued support. This funding gives us the security to continue offering regular film screenings for our members and helps ensure that older people in our community have opportunities to socialise and stay connected.
“The Film Club has become a much loved part of community life, attracting members from Cromarty, Rosemarkie, Culbokie and surrounding areas. We are delighted that the Port recognises the value of this work and continues to invest in the wellbeing of local people.”
Alex Campbell, Chief Executive at the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: “The Cromarty Classic Film Club is a wonderful example of a community led initiative that makes a real difference to people’s lives. By providing regular opportunities for social interaction, entertainment and support, the Club helps address loneliness and promotes positive mental wellbeing.
“We are pleased to continue our support through the Community Sponsorship Programme and help ensure this valued project can carry on thriving. The Club’s success demonstrates the strength of partnership working within our communities and the positive impact that local organisations can achieve together.”
The Film Club brings together residents from across the Black Isle and Easter Ross, strengthening community connections while preserving a shared appreciation of cinema and culture. The wider partnership between Cromarty Cinema and Eden Court also provides audiences in the region with access to a diverse programme of film. This includes the annual Inverness Film Festival, which returns to Eden Court from 13 to 19 November 2026, bringing a week long celebration of international cinema and Scottish debut screenings to the Highlands.
Through the continued partnership between Cromarty Care Project, Cromarty Community Cinema and the Port of Cromarty Firth, the Club will continue to provide a social outlet for people throughout the coming year.
The impact of the Film Club and the difference it makes to the local community is highlighted in the following case study video, which features members and showcases the Club’s activities.
The Community Sponsorship Programme aspires to improve, safeguard and develop Cromarty Firth communities, for the benefit of local people.
Community projects, schools or local charities based in one of the nine communities that border the Cromarty Firth are welcome to apply for support. They can do so by submitting an application form stating the project’s objectives, aspirations and the benefits to the community, along with a letter/email of support from their local Community Council.
- Projects must be collaborative and meet one of four eligibility criteria:
- Skills development, employability or job creation,
- Vessel crew or passenger support,
- Environmental protection or enhancement,
- Events or projects which encourage inter-community collaboration.
Application forms are available on the Port of Cromarty Firth website or from cfpa@cfpa.co.uk
