MULHOLLAND 'DELIGHTED' HISTORIC CINEMA SECURES NEW FUTURE

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 28th Jul 2005

Greg Mulholland, Member of Parliament for Leeds North West, has warmly welcomed the news that the Cottage Road cinema has been bought by Northern Morris Associated Cinemas, saving the cinema from imminent closure.

Speaking ahead of the first film to be shown under new management this weekend, CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY, Greg said:

"Along with the local community, I'm delighted this historic cinema now has a secure future.

"As one of the oldest cinemas in the country, it would have been crazy to consign it to the history books.

"It's now time for the local area to get behind cinemas like Cottage Road and the Hyde Park Picture House which are far more enjoyable than bland multiplex cinemas.

"Let's hope the new owner markets the cinema in a better way than has been done previously, and the council use it as one of the venues for the Leeds International Film Festival in November.

"Supporters of vibrant, local independent cinema attending the screening of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory this weekend really have got the Golden Ticket."