A former Altrincham Grammar School boy from Hale who only picked up a camera two years ago has won £80,000 at a leading film festival.
Alex Bescoby won the Whicker’s World Foundation Award at Doc/Fest in Sheffield for his documentary Burma’s Lost Royals.
The Whicker’s World Foundation builds on the legacy of celebrated journalist and broadcaster Alan Whicker, who died in 2013, and aims to support documentary makers under the age of 30.
Bescoby’s story centres around a forgotten monarchy and an intriguing quest that threatens to tear a family apart.
He said: “I only picked up a camera two years ago and whilst working in Burma had an epiphany.
“This story for me opened the windows to Burma’s soul and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to tell it.”
Watch a teaser for the documentary here:
Valerie Kleeman, who set up the Foundation and was Whicker’s partner for more than 40 years, said: “Alan would have loved this story of the Burma Royals.
“He would have jumped at the chance to of made it himself. I look forward to viewing the finished film.
“Alan’s wish was that the Foundation should provide a platform for young documentary makers. He would be amazed and delighted by so much of what we have seen.”
Alex’s dad, Roger, told us he was “so proud” at his son’s success.
Watch the winner’s announcement:
On the money. @AlexBescoby congratulations. Yay!!!! Go get it. Winner @whickersworld pitch winner #sheffdocfest pic.twitter.com/Ok6AXh4R8O
— Chithra Jeyaram (@Realtalkies) June 14, 2016
