Community cinema grant will bring films to Midsomer Norton Town Hall

Midsomer Norton is to have a new monthly community cinema based in the Town Hall thanks to an imaginative grant bid put together by the Bath Film Festival team in conjunction with local individuals, community groups and businesses.

The funding comes from Bath and North East Somerset Council, Creative England and Wessex Water - backed with a contribution of free hall space for a year from the Sarah Ann Trust which runs the Town Hall.

Many residents have fond memories watching films at the Midsomer Norton Palladium, but since it closed in the 1990s the only option has been to drive further afield.

Now plans are being developed to offer a double bill, one Saturday afternoon a month in the Town Hall.

Mayor of Midsomer Norton Paul Myers (Con, Midsomer Norton Redfield), who is also involved with the Sarah Ann Trust, said: "When the Bath Film Festival team approached us it was too good an opportunity to miss.

"Our aim is to put together a programme of contemporary and classic films to appeal to all ages and tastes shown in a warm and inviting space and of course with everything you would expect in a cinema such as ice cream and popcorn."

Mr Myers said the aim is to try to attract a wide audience from across the district by offering the chance to enjoy films on their doorstep rather than having to travel out of the area.

He added: "We also hope to build strong links with local businesses such as cafes and restaurants in order to expand and develop the town's nightlife and leisure offering."

Volunteers are in the process of founding the Midsomer Norton Community Cinema and are aiming to launch at the end of March.