Founder Derek Simmonds
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Ray Watson operated sales and a film library, which stocked all formats, both sound and silent. Based in Coventry it was one of the largest film libraries in the UK, and was run from the Watsofilms address, in Charles Street. Later he split the sales and library, with their sales known as Debonair Film Distributors and being run from their Lower Ford Street premises. Following his death in 1991, long time employee Gillian Saunders took over its running, until her death in 2000.
I remember well as I was introduced to Watsofilms by my dad, dad used to rent 6 std 8mm films over Christmas and New Year every year.
I followed on the tradition, until joining the RAF.
Returning for many years after finishing service.
I only met Ray once, he was sitting in an office above the shop surrounded by magazines and catalogues.
Ray Watson had a very extensive catalogue of films in the library. When I was about 17, the Watsofilm catalogue was one of my prized posessions, though I never managed toview all of the films which I had labelled as ‘must see’!
Ray also had his private collection, only shared with a spefic selection of his circle. It was always a special treat to view his latest aquisition.
Hi Graham, I too sent for his numerous catalogues and used to spend long hours taking in their content. He seemed to have a catalogue for every film gauge.
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