Film explores history of Reigate Priory in Surrey
- Published
The pavilion was opened in 2008 as part of a wider restoration project
A new film exploring the history of a Reigate landmark has been released this Christmas.
Documentary maker Carolyn Burnley charts the history of Reigate Priory through to its recent restoration.
Ms Burnley said the priory and surrounding park had "always been at the very heart" of the town.
The priory, which was founded in the early 13th Century, is now home to Reigate Priory Museum and Reigate Priory School.
Ms Burnley, who has lived in Reigate for most of her life, said: "I wanted to make a film that took you on a journey through the lives of those who actually lived there and how their occupancy influenced the park landscape."
Lottery funding
In 2007, a project began to restore Priory Park to its 18th Century heyday including the construction of a glass pavilion to house a cafe, toilets and information facilities.
Reigate and Banstead Borough Council received £4.2m of lottery funding towards the restoration.
The film has been sponsored by the borough council and Legal & General.
Councillor Adam De Save, the council's executive member for leisure, said the film showed why the park's restoration was "so important to everyone".