Film that helped save Fleetwood ferry from closure to screen at CineWyre Film Festival with director Q&A
A documentary credited with helping to secure the future of the Fleetwood to Knott End Ferry is set to be screened at a major new film festival in the town.
End to End, made by filmmaker and campaigner Anton Arenko, will be shown at the inaugural CineWyre Film Festival - which runs from February 26 to March 1 - at Marine Hall, followed by a Q&A with the director.
The film explores the history and community importance of the Fleetwood to Knott End Ferry, which has carried passengers across the River Wyre since Victorian times.
Anton said he first became fascinated by the ferry after moving to the area and taking a trip across the estuary.
“I was like, ‘This is amazing,’” he said. “I started digging into the history and realised how much it means to local people.”
Originally conceived as a community documentary celebrating working-class stories, the project took on new urgency when Anton discovered the ferry’s operating contract was due to expire in April 2026.
As the film began screening locally and on the festival circuit, concerns grew about the service’s long-term future.
Anton launched a petition calling on Wyre Council and Lancashire County Council to secure continued funding, working alongside Blackpool North and Fleetwood MP Lorraine Beavers.
After more than 3,000 signatures and months of campaigning, confirmation came in November that funding had been secured until 2029.
“Starting the campaign early showed the power of local people coming together,” Anton said.
“This isn’t just a mode of transport - it’s a piece of heritage.”
The short crossing, currently operated by Wyre Marine Services, remains a vital link between Fleetwood and Knott End, although sailings are governed by the tides due to siltation in the estuary.
Anton hopes screening the film as part of CineWyre will introduce new audiences to Fleetwood’s story.
“With people coming for the festival, some may never have visited Fleetwood before,” he said.
“I hope it gives them an insight into the town, its history and the people who care about it.”
CineWyre, a four-day celebration of independent cinema, features documentary, family-friendly, horror and LGBTQ+ strands, alongside international selections and filmmaker events.
To book your tickets visit www.marinehall.co.uk or call 01253 887693.