A charity is capturing a snapshot of history by putting together an exhibition about the iconic photographic company Ilford Limited.

Eastside Community Heritage has received a £10,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to run a project exploring the impact of the business on the surrounding area and the effect it had on residents.

Executive director of Eastside Heritage Judith Garfield MBE explained that the company was a big name in the industry, but since Ilford Limited moved to Cheshire in the 1980s a lot of people have forgotten the birthplace of the business.

“This is an exciting time in Ilford’s history, and we now have the opportunity to record and document a part of Ilford’s lost history,” she said.

“Ilford Limited played an important role in people’s lives as well as pioneering new technology, and ways in which more people could see themselves and the world through photography.”

Alfred Harman created Ilford Limited in his basement in Cranbrook Road in 1879.

Its success allowed the company to be moved to a new site in Roden Street, which is today occupied by Sainsbury’s.

One of the aims of Eastside’s project is to connect with the community, and photographic workshops will be held at the supermarket to teach camera skills and share historical information.

“With the many changes under way, including the developments connected to Crossrail, we are so pleased to be reminding people of Ilford’s important history and place in the world,” added Ms Garfield.

Ilford Limited employed a lot of people and Eastside is keen to interview as many former employees as possible so the company’s important heritage does not get lost.

To find about workshops or for more information call 020 8553 3116.