FILM fans are flocking to a new club for alternative cinema.

Clayport Film Club was set up in Clayport Library, in Durham, in March last year by Durham County Council workers Geoff Pratt and John Coburn.

The not-for-profit society aims to offer the best in world cinema and independent films from the UK and US.

Mr Coburn said: "We have steadily amassed a devoted and enthusiastic following.

"Averaging around 65 people per showing with a membership of just under 200, we are one of the fastest growing film societies in the UK."

It was set up in the wake of the closure of the Robins cinema in the city's North Road three years ago -now an Australian theme bar.

Mr Coburn said: "It had a profound impact on the local community, especially since no cinema had been set up since then to effectively take its place. The deep desire for good quality cinema in Durham was obvious."

The club's fortnightly programme for this year will start on Thursday, January 13, at 7.45pm, with a screening of the acclaimed Italian feature I'm Not Scared. The club will hold its annual meeting on Thursday, January 20, at the same time.

The library also hosts Studies in Silent Cinema, run by local film historian David Williams. The weekly series looks at early 20th Century Hollywood and will start at 7pm on Wednesday, January 12, with a look at the 1913 film Traffic In Souls.

Published: 03/01/05