VIDEO: Hucknall community cinema is launched with rave reviews and special guests Helen Hunt and Kevin Spacey

The West Hucknall Community Cinema Club is located at St Peter and St Paul’s Community Hall on Ruffs Drive.

Monthly public screenings are planned on Saturdays at 2pm, the first being on 12th July. These are free for all people and organisations who become members of the club.

The film chosen for the launch was ‘Pay It Forward’, co-starring Kevin Spacey, Haley Joel Osment and Helen Hunt.

The storyline of a boy wanting to make the world a better place parallels the motivation that led to the cinema club coming to fruition.

It all stemmed from the Rev Jo Stephens, of St Peter and St Paul’s Church, having a vision to set up a social activity that people of all ages could enjoy.

“The west of Hucknall is an area where there is not a lot for families to do,” said Jo. “The Saturday matinees will hopefully give them something they can regularly look forward to.”

The cinema offers a full 15ft HD screen with surround sound, as well as 60 comfortable seats and ten bean bags.

Jo said a dedicated team of volunteers had produced a cinematic experience that was second to none, with much technical expertise involved.

The initiative has entailed two years of fundraising and grant applications. A total of £22,000 has been spent on the project, including refurbishment of the hall.

Financial help has come from the National Lottery, the Coalfields Regeneration Trust, the Diocesan Development Fund, Ashfield District and Notts County Councils and Beauvale Community and Youth Charity.

The cinema will be available for hire by private parties as well as by charities, organisations and for educational purposes.

Coun Chris Baron (Lab), leader of Ashfield District Council and a member for Hucknall West ward, attended the launch night.

He said: “I think the cinema club is an absolutely great idea to benefit the community and I am delighted that the required funding has been forthcoming.

“The opening event was a very enjoyable occasion, with even popcorn provided.”

Full information about the cinema club can be obtained by phoning 0115 9633640.