Undercurrents (news)
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Undercurrents is an alternative video news network which began with the UK distribution of videotapes shot by volunteers. It has since expanded to include a web presence, media training for volunteers, and a film festival, BeyondTV.
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[edit] History
Undercurrents came into being in 1994 with a VHS videocassette of news which the editors felt were not being addressed by the mainstream media. One of the issues covered was the introduction of the Criminal Justice Bill, whose varied measures included attempts to curtail large gatherings both of travellers and raves. A second video was released before the end of the year. Bands such as the Levellers included Undercurrents references on their CD sleeves.
[edit] Status
Undercurrents subsequently became a non-profit company and a registered charity. They have moved their office from London, to Oxford then to Swansea.
[edit] Court Cases
Some of their footage of political protests has been used in court cases. Including footage of Genoa G8 summit, and a police raid on undercurrents offices their.
[edit] Current Projects
'Reach for the Sky', premiered at BeyondTV 2004, produced by Undercurrents, focuses on Swansea Airport and that uncontrolled aviation expansion is unsustainable. Swansea Airport, with the connivance of Swansea Council, was given the go-ahead to operate in the centre of the Gower peninsula, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the first AONB to be designated in the country. Public pressure forced Swansea Airport to close down. Air Wales, which operated from Swansea Airport, now operates from Cardiff International Airport.
Their latest videos are hosted on the Clearer channel website
