A Century of Dedication to Film and Community
The UK cultural and educational communities are mourning the loss of Marjorie Ainsworth, whose extraordinary life spanned 103 years and left an indelible mark on Manchester's film society movement and education sector. Ainsworth, who passed away recently, dedicated an incredible 86 years as a volunteer for Manchester and Salford Film Society, serving as its president from 2007 onward.
A Lifelong Love Affair with Cinema
Marjorie's journey with the film society began in 1939 when her boyfriend, Tom Ainsworth, persuaded the 17-year-old to attend a screening. She immediately fell in love with both Tom and the society, marrying him in 1942 and embarking on decades of shared cinematic passion. Throughout their partnership, Marjorie took on every role within the society except projectionist, which remained Tom's domain.
The couple's dedication proved instrumental to the organisation's longevity, with the society now celebrating its 95th season, partly thanks to their unwavering commitment. When Tom became too ill to operate the projector, Marjorie's practical solution was to purchase a DVD projector to keep screenings running smoothly.
Honours and Lasting Legacy
In 2016, Marjorie received the highest honour of her cinematic career – the Roebuck Cup from Cinema for All, awarded for outstanding individual contribution to the film society movement. The presentation earned her a standing ovation from peers and admirers. Her advice to others reflected her lifelong philosophy: "If you go on watching good films, it'll keep you in touch with the zeitgeist and guarantees you won't have a mouldy old age."
Following Tom's death in 2007, the society established a student short film award in his memory. Now, a new Ainsworth Cup has been introduced to honour both Tom and Marjorie's combined legacy, ensuring their contributions to film society culture will be remembered for generations.
From Manchester to Academic Achievement
Born in Gorton, Manchester, Marjorie remained connected to her hometown throughout her life, apart from a period of Second World War service in south Wales. Her early life saw her leave school at 14 to become a shorthand typist before she pursued teaching qualifications at Manchester Training College.
Her academic journey was remarkable: She taught at Newall Green secondary modern school in Wythenshawe, earned a diploma in educational psychology, joined the Schools Psychology Service, and completed a master's in education in 1966. Her appointment as a research associate at Manchester University led to published work following up on the Plowden report on primary education.
Marjorie's career culminated with her position as senior lecturer in secondary education at Didsbury College of Education before taking early retirement in 1977.
A Woman of Enduring Spirit and Modern Sensibilities
Colleagues and friends remember Marjorie as someone who embraced modern technology and constantly challenged herself both physically and mentally. She maintained the daily discipline of completing the Guardian quick crossword and approached every endeavour with absolute determination.
Described as witty, wise, stylish, and modern, she was equally comfortable conversing with students as with celebrities. Her favourite song, I'm Hip by Blossom Dearie, was played at her funeral, perfectly capturing her contemporary spirit and self-awareness.
Beyond her film society work, Marjorie was also the longest-standing member of Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society, which she joined in 1955, and served as honorary vice-president of the Cinema for All organisation.
Marjorie Ainsworth is survived by her niece, Jane, and two great-nephews, Max and Magnus. Her century of life demonstrates how passion, curiosity, and dedication can create ripples that extend far beyond one's own lifetime, enriching communities and inspiring future generations.
