LIVERPOOL CANOE CLUB CHRISTMAS PADDLE 11.12.22 A SHORT FILM
Director: Brian Green. Script: Paul Goetzee. Cast: Thousands.
FADE IN :
EXT. A55 – MORNING
A winter wonderland of white fields and snow-laden trees and occasional freezing fog. Five V-shaped squadrons of Canada geese flying in from the colder north: Scandanavia, Russia, Canada even? Not much traffic. It’s Sunday 7.30am.
Cut to:
EXT. CAR PARK, CONWY – MORNING
Bitterly cold, as paddlers unpack and unload playboats, paddle boards, sea kayaks and an open canoe. As they zip themselves (and others) into dry suits and pull-on gloves or pogies, the air is filled with laughter and chat. All set for a gentle meander with an incoming spring tide up the River Conwy some ways. A brief briefing from Keith and they’re away in groups of five or six, the sun just starting to break through the grey.
Cut to:
EXT. RIVER CONWY – DAY
Out comes the sunshine. No sign of snow now except on the distant mountains of … Snowdonia? Clwyd? Geography never was my strong point. But still a bit chilly. Gradually though everyone warms up and one paddler even regrets he didn’t bring eye protection:
PADDLER: I wish I’d brought me sunnies now!
We stop on the river bank for a light lunch as the tide turns (12.20). Much chat and laughter, even a spontaneous conga, seemingly initiated by one Dorin Wang. Then it’s back in the water, pogies stowed as hands are now ice-free, gliding back to Conwy on a fast-moving current. Who needs paddles?
INT. GEORE HOTEL, LLANDUDNO – EVENING
In the Victorian splendour of a seafront hotel, the paddlers sit down to dine. A pleasant meal, friendly service and very little alcohol consumed as there was a 70 plus mile drive home to Liverpool and beyond. Still, chat and laughter grow in volume and everyone seems to have a good time. No speeches? Did someone forget their script? Probably just as well…
INT. CAR, EVENING.
Back home along the A55, this time under a clear sky with a big waning yellow ‘Cold’ moon overhead. Minus one on the dashboard thermometer … Hope all got back safely.
FADE OUT.
Our thanks to director Brian Green for organising the shoot and to the cast of thousands for acting with professional skill and impeccable timing. Remember there’s no such thing as a small part, just big paddlers … and ‘boarders.
