Lives Remembered — Roger Bogg
Roger, longterm projectionist at the Hebden Bridge Picture House, died Thursday 11th June.
Tuesday, 16 June 2009
It is with great sadness that I announce the untimely death of Roger Bogg, long-standing projectionist at Hebden Bridge Picture House. Roger died of natural causes at work on Thursday 11th June.
It seems so fitting that Roger’s life should come to an end in the place he loved, and to which he dedicated over forty years of his life.
He often commented that he had the best job in the world, and took as much pleasure in showing films as the many customers have had in watching them.
Roger was incredibly modest about the work he did and service he provided for the community, but rarely could you find a more hard-working and committed individual than Roger. Nothing was too much trouble, no task too hard, no day too long.
His brilliant wit and expertise would keep all of us at the cinema on our toes. A true original, he will be deeply missed.
Photo: Jason Elliott
From Patsy F
Friday, 19 June 2009
It’s very sad to learn of the too-early death of Roger Bogg (the HB Picture House projectionist) 8 days ago. But what a way to go - for a man like that who so loved his job, to die in his projection room while running a film! I can’t imagine a better death for such a committed enthusiast.
I first met him over 20 years ago when the Calderdale Community Film Project showed an evening of their work, called ‘Hebden Bridge Goes to Hollywood’ at The Picture House. In the adrenalin-charged preparations, dizzy with our own glory, one of us lost his favourite small screwdriver - and he was furious! It wasn’t a particularly special one (or so we thought) and we bought him a posh new one, but he was incandescent and inconsolable because it was HIS screwdriver and nothing could replace! Weeks later, after his Victor Meldrew act faded, I got to know him better and discovered his humour and sly wit. He was a super bloke and has gone too soon. Cinema Paradiso won’t be the same without him.
From Cllr Janet Battye
Monday, 29 June 2009
I’m sure that we’ll all have good memories of the service that Roger gave to us through the Picture House. I’ve asked Calderdale Council Officers to make sure that something is done to mark his contribution. They tell me that they are planning to show some of his favourite films - probably during the month of August because the programme for July has already been booked.
That sounds like a good idea but a lasting tribute would be also be fitting - ideas welcome!
From Richard Dalby
Friday, 19 June 2009
I feel deeply saddended by the news of Roger’s death. I worked several years ago as a part-time projectionist at Hebden Bridge Picture House, and felt honoured to have Roger as my teacher. His knowledge of cinema, running a projection room (not easy - much of the equipment must have been built back in the 1940s!) was incredible. It was daunting to try and follow in his steps. Indeed, I failed!
Roger was incredibly dedicated to our cinema, and worked there practically every day, week in week out, for many, many years.
I think it was Channel 4 who made a remarkable 5 minute film featuring Roger and his thoughts on cinema. His words were magical, and also very emotional. I’d love to see it again if it’s available.
Thank you Roger for your key role in keeping a place so special as the Picture House running. You were canterkerous, far too modest, oftem a bit baffling, but a rather fine and decent chap too.