The BBC used to have long running tradition of showing slightly spooky or unnerving films during the festive period, these were called 'Ghost Stories for Christmas' series and were extremely popular. In 1982 the BBC adapted the Edward Chitham book 'Ghost in the Water' into a 50 minute short film aimed at spooking teens.

The story centres around two students, Tess and David, who are investigating the gravestones of the local church for a History project. When they find that their research overlaps on one Abigail Parkes who "Died without harm" they team up together to find out what happened to her. Along the way they find that this 19th century death seems to be linked to Tess's family in some way. When she has visions of the past and finds a tapestry in her house connects her to Abigail the mystery deepens and becomes personal...

The acting by the young cast is earnest and a bit hammy in places but it's pretty good and consistent overall. The cinematography is basic but the atmosphere created during the dark, winters evening in the graveyard does create an effective mood in the Black Country.

‘Ghost in the Water’ is a good quick watch and whilst it won't linger long in the memory, it's a pleasant way to while away an hour and admire the fashion and hair styles of the time. It's an intriguing premise and there are twists and turns aplenty to keep you engaged right up to the end.