FANS and the cast of the classic film Whistle Down The Wind came together to mark its 50th anniversary.

Showings of the iconic film, memorabilia and even a letter from the director Bryan Forbes helped make the reunion in Downham Village Hall yesterday a resounding success.

Whistle Down The Wind, which starred Hayley Mills and Alan Bates, also had on screen debuts from a handful of local youngsters.

Diane Poole, who played Nan Bostock, organised yesterday’s celebration along with Lois Brunning, and Pam Dyson who also appeared in the movie.

Diane said the film’s Bryan Forbes was too ill to attend but had sent a letter which was read out where he sent everyone his love.

Diane, who lives in Cheshire but works in Clitheroe, said: “A lot of people in Downham were buzzing about this.

"We couldn’t let the 50th anniversary pass without doing something.

“The film holds a big affection for us and we can’t let it go.

“I’m surprised there is still interest in it. ”

The film is now recognised as one of the best British movies ever made.

It is a touching tale of three young children who discover a man on the run for murder in their barn and take him to be Jesus Christ.

Filming took place on the moors at Burnley and Bacup, and famously at Worsaw End Farm, Downham, which provided the location of the Bostock family farm and the barn in which the man hides.