WHAT is arguably Stanley's most distinctive building faces its final curtain call today as part of an £865,000 re-development.

The Pavilion Cinema, for half a century at the heart the town's entertainment scene, is to be demolished to make way for a Co-op funeral home.

With it will go some of the memories of generations of the former coal-mining people of Stanley, who saw the latest Hollywood glamour films at The Pavilion from the late 1920s to the early 1980s.

The cinema closed its doors in 1984 and was converted into a car discount centre.

Pensioners in the area, which is close to St Andrew's Church, had opposed the Co-op's plans.

They argued the parlour would be a constant reminder of the Grim Reaper, particularly for those living at Stanfield House old people's home.

In a letter and petition sent to planners at Derwentside District Council last June, one pensioner complained the site of coffins would "make her nervous".

Other residents argued the development would lead to traffic problems, but councillors decided to approve the plans saying it was a major investment for the town.

The new premises will replace the Co-op's existing funeral home in the High Street, which needs repairs.

Co-operative Funeral Services is refurbishing funeral parlours at Murton, Consett and Willington, as part of a £2m investment programme.