A new initiative to develop a community cinema in Bradford has been given a boost with the help of £10,000 from the Big Lottery.
The money will enable the Mechanics Institute in Eccleshill to buy their own projector, screen and sound system so they can screen films and host film events on a regular basis.
The site used to house the Eccleshill Picture House, which was opened in 1911.
Bradford City of Film have been advising staff at Eccleshill on film licenses.
Early films at Eccleshill had piano accompaniment and the screen was a white sheet which flapped about in the draught.
Director of Bradford UNESCO City of Film, David Wilson, said: “We are delighted to be working with the Eccelshill Mechanics Institute on this initiative which gives the local community a chance to enjoy films and socialise in their own locality.
“The fact that the venue is also linked to Bradford’s rich film heritage is a superb bonus.
“Local volunteers will help to decide the film schedule and we are also looking forward to hosting a number of Memory Bank Bradford workshops at the venue.’’
