Lights, Camera… Haunting! Petroc Students Film Horror Short Aboard SS Freshspring

In February 2025, the historic SS Freshspring became the atmospheric setting for Chasing Shadows, a short horror film produced by students from the Foundation Degree in Creative Media at Petroc College.

This exciting collaboration offered students a rare opportunity to transform a real-world maritime heritage site into a dramatic film set—blending fiction with rich historical detail.

A Historic Setting Enhances Storytelling

Chasing Shadows follows a group of amateur ghost hunters who board the SS Freshspring to fake a paranormal investigation. As they stage eerie encounters for the camera, things begin to spiral out of control. Strange occurrences escalate, people start disappearing, and the line between acting and actual horror begins to blur.

With its authentic character and sense of history, SS Freshspring provided the perfect backdrop. The ship’s engine room, narrow passageways, and original crew quarters helped set the tone for the film’s suspenseful scenes, offering an immersive, cinematic environment unlike any studio.

Student Insights 

Joel Turley, the film’s producer and director, shared:

"We aimed to create a horror experience that blurs perception and reality. The ship’s character and history added layers of mystery to our film. Filming aboard SS Freshspring gave us something truly special.”

The crew also extended thanks to the Biology department for lending a skeleton prop, and to Derek Spears for additional support.

A Grateful Collaboration

The SS Freshspring Trust was delighted to host the project, continuing its commitment to engaging young people in creative and educational opportunities. The collaboration not only brought new life to the ship, but it also highlighted the value of heritage spaces as learning environments.

Joe Hicks, Social & Marketing Executive at Petroc, captured the project in a series of stunning photographs, showcasing the ship and student creativity in action.

Coming Soon…

Chasing Shadows will premiere later this year and promises to be a gripping blend of history and horror. Audiences can expect twists, frights, and unforgettable scenes—many filmed right here in Bideford.

Stay tuned, and thank you to Petroc for choosing SS Freshspring as your ghostly getaway!