Cinema back after five years

A cinema has reopened after an absence of five years - to the delight of fans.

Queues started to form at 6.30pm for the 8pm showing of blockbuster film 2012 - the first film shown at the Electric Palace Picture House, formerly the Picture House, Cannock, since 2004.

Town developer Fred Pritchard, who has breathed new life into the cinema, said he was delighted with the turnout for the special charity opening.

VIP guests enjoyed drinks served on the balcony before seeing the film from luxury seats in the packed 260 seat theatre.

Mr Pritchard said it was great to see so many people and he hoped people would continue to use it and turn it into a great success.

Beryl Bagnall, aged 62, of Cannock, said: "I think this is just wonderful. I saw my first ever film at this cinema when I was 15 - it was an Elvis Presley film called Blue Hawaii. I used to go a lot when I was younger and was really upset when it closed. It is great to see it back open again and I am impressed by what I have seen."

In the VIP area Jill Wilby, of Cannock, watched the film with son Ben, seven, a child actor set to appear in film Nativity, out in December. Ben will be back at the cinema next month to see himself on screen.