A video clip featuring festive messages for the crew of RFA Argus, who are helping with the global fight against Ebola in Sierra Leone, has been released on the internet. WATCH HERE
A team of editors at Falmouth University have spent the past week putting the finishing touches to the film, which is entitled Happy Christmas RFA Argus, Love Falmouth.
It includes video footage and photographs from organisations, businesses, events and families set to rousing Christmas carols performed exclusively for the video by St Keverne Town Band and local vocal group 8 In A Bar. There is also a festive song written by singer songwriter Ralph McTell.
It is hoped that the festive video message will give the crew of RFA Argus a morale boost while they are away from home at Christmas.
Thousands of people waved off the medical ship as she left her home port of Falmouth in October en route to Sierra Leone.
The video has been put together in just three weeks after an idea of Falmouth’s MP, Sarah Newton, was taken to heart by A&P Falmouth and Falmouth University.
Peter Child, managing director of A&P Falmouth, said: “We are eagerly awaiting the premiere of the video and are all looking forward to the reaction of the 360 crew on board RFA Argus.
“We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has taken the time to get involved. It once again shows what a fantastic relationship Falmouth has with Argus and what the vessel means to local people. I urge everyone to go online on Wednesday to see the finished video.”
Sarah Newton added: “Wow! What a great response from the community of Falmouth. Thank you to everyone who has joined in. A special thanks to A&P Falmouth, Falmouth University, Script 2 Screen Media, 8 Wire, St Keverne Town Band, 8 In A Bar and Falmouth Town Council. I am very much looking forward to seeing the final film.”
Falmouth musician Gareth Churcher, who provided the soundtrack to the video, said: “It was an honour and a privilege to be asked to provide music for the video. This is such a worthy cause and my thanks go to St Keverne Band, 8 In A Bar and Ralph McTell for making it happen.”
A book of Christmas messages has been opened by Falmouth Town Council. It is being held in the town’s library for anyone who would like to send a greeting to the ship.
Messages can also be left on the Facebook page, Happy Christmas RFA Argus, Love Falmouth.
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