A young man from the Scottish Borders has captivated audiences by transforming old photographs into dynamic video montages using artificial intelligence. Marc Edwards, a marketing officer, started this project to impress his grandparents but quickly found himself at the center of a regional phenomenon. His creations have become educational tools in schools and cherished memories for older generations. The widespread acclaim for his work underscores the power of modern technology to bring history to life.

Marc’s innovative use of AI not only preserves local heritage but also fosters a deeper connection with the past. His videos, featuring street scenes from as early as the late 1800s, are now integral parts of history lessons in classrooms and social gatherings for seniors. The overwhelming response has inspired him to continue exploring the possibilities of AI while bringing joy and nostalgia to communities across the Borders.

From Personal Project to Community Treasure

What began as an attempt to delight his grandparents evolved into something much larger. Marc’s initial experiment with AI software transformed static photographs of Jedburgh into captivating moving images. The positive reception from his family and community encouraged him to expand his efforts to neighboring towns like Kelso and Galashiels. This endeavor quickly gained traction, resonating deeply with both younger and older generations.

Marc’s journey started when he envisioned how his grandparents would react to seeing their hometown in motion. By applying cutting-edge AI techniques, he achieved astonishing results that exceeded all expectations. Within days of sharing his first video on social media, it garnered tens of thousands of views, shares, and likes. Teachers praised the videos for enhancing students’ understanding of local history, while requests poured in from various communities eager to preserve their own legacies. Marc expressed excitement about continuing his work, acknowledging the limitless potential of AI technology.

Connecting Generations Through Nostalgia

Beyond its appeal to educators and historians, Marc’s work has struck a chord with older adults who cherish memories of bygone eras. His videos have become staples at gatherings organized by groups such as the Older People Active Lives (OPAL) project in Galashiels. These montages serve as vivid reminders of places and moments long past, evoking powerful emotions among viewers.

At an OPAL event, over 20 pensioners gathered to relive the charm of their youth through Marc’s creations. Participants like Ann and Monica marveled at familiar landmarks brought back to life, including the old railway station. Monica recounted her childhood experience of meeting her father returning from Dunkirk, while Ann reflected on the transformations witnessed over decades. Such reactions highlight the profound impact these videos have had on preserving collective memory. Meanwhile, Marc’s biggest supporters remain his grandparents, Isobel and George Somerville, whose pride in his achievements fuels his ongoing passion for this meaningful project.