A FILMMAKER from Chester has been awarded the prestigious 'Filmmaker of the Year' award in national magazine, Pro Moviemaker.

Jonathan Davies, a corporate photographer and commercial filmmaker was chosen to receive the award in the events category after filming the opening of Rek41, a social club in Birkenhead which gives recovering addicts and alcoholics a safe space to stay away from drink and drugs.

Its launch in March this year was captured by Jonathan, who had previously met Rek 41 director Matt Tomlinson through various business support groups and was touched by his passion to provide a safe and welcoming alternative venue and offered his services to document the opening night.

Jonathan soon drafted in the support of Crewe-born Gareth Williams, aka ‘The Rhymeologist’ who uses a unique form of lyrical marketing to promote businesses and charities.

The awards were judged by a panel of experts and included entries from music videos, adverts, documentaries and even a full-length feature film.

Jonathan said that he had not expected to win and that at one point he was not even sure which category would best fit the piece.

Adam Duckworth, Editor in Chief for Pro Moviemaker Magazine said: "The very best filmmaking is about understanding when you have a good story, then telling it in a captivating way. So, the idea of the new social club to help people stay away from alcohol and drugs is a winning story.

"And telling the tale in just one minute, thanks to the poetry of The Rhymeologist and some great footage of real people having real fun, makes it both artistic, thought-provoking, and very real and authentic. It’s an uplifting story, well told and genuine good news to be celebrated."

On winning the award, Jonathan said: "I couldn’t believe it when I opened the email from Pro Moviemaker Magazine to see I’d won the award! I was in the middle of a shoot and had to take a break to ring Gareth straight away to tell him the good news!"

More information and access to support from Rek41 can be found through the club's Facebook page.

Rek41 is located at 38 Hamilton Street, Birkenhead. You can also follow or donate to Matt Tomlinson's challenge to swim across the Mersey to raise funds for the centre.

Jonathan and Gareth can be contacted at: www.jonathandaviesphotographic.co.uk and www.rhymeology.co.uk, respectively.