In the year 1304, King Edward I (otherwise known as Edward Long Shanks – the bad guy in "Braveheart") gave permission for a market to be held in Linktown, Kirkcaldy, on the shores of the Firth of Forth. A staggering seven hundred years later and The Links Market is still going strong – these days transformed into one of the largest and exciting annual street funfairs in Europe.
A seventh centenary – a good excuse for a celebration. But who is going to organise it? And what exactly will they do?
The 700th is the tale of a small town pulling together to organise a big event. It charts the history of the Market itself – from simple local trader stalls to today’s adrenalin pumping thrill-rides – and over a period of several months, follows the highs and lows of the many colourful local characters involved in the organisation and build-up to the 700th anniversary celebrations.
It’s a race against time to be ready for the big opening...
Directed by Stuart Brown (www.stuartbrown.info). 56 mins. PAL 16:9.
Caution: Contains flashing lights and images.
“Stuart has done a tremendous job… He has really captured the essence of what was Scotland’s family event for 2004… he should be very proud of this piece of work.”
– The Dundee Courier
“It was funny, it was interesting, it had great pace and energy.”
– audience member
“It’s like a docu-soap on speed, I was pure skakin’ by the end.”
– audience member
Directed by
Stuart Brown
Produced by
Stuart Brown & Graeme Campbell
Camera & Sound by
Stuart Brown
Brian Strachan
Vince Johnston
Andrew Harper
Facilities
Mary Gordon
MIMAC
Sean McRae
Editor
Robbie Morrison
Music & Sound Effects
Francois Perez
Thanks to
Helena Jackson
Bill Mair
Linda Thomson
The Video Crew
Clued Up
Kirkcaldy Central Library
Kirkcaldy Museum & Art Gallery
The Showmens’ Guild
Supported by
The Heritage Lottery Fund
Scottish Enterprise
Fife Council