Butlins is appealing to the nation to find a home movie of its opening day on 11th April 1936 – to become the centrepiece of its 75th Birthday celebrations.

The holiday company has teamed up with the National Film Archive to preserve classic footage from its early years.

The footage will be used to create a film of Butlins most iconic activities through the decades – such as the glamorous tea dances and pool parties of the 50s. Sadly, cine film from the very early days is missing and Butlins is also appealing for classic movie gems from the 40s and 50s.

Said Richard Bates from Butlins; “We’re convinced that hiding in peoples’ attics and garages are some lost movie gems we would love to have to complete our birthday celebrations. These clips could also reveal many of the secrets of Butlins huge success over the past 75 years.

“Millions of hours of home movies have been shot at Butlins over the years. We want to find as many of these priceless memories as we can.”

Since opening Butlins has enjoyed two Royal visits, owned two resident elephants (Charlie and Gertrude), and even played a vital role in World War Two opening its doors to become home to thousands of servicemen.

Anyone with Butlins cine-film or video footage that could be a lost gem is asked to email butlinsfilm@launchgroup.co.uk or call 020 7758 3900 with the details.