VOLUNTEERS are celebrating the tenth birthday of the cinema they rescued from closure.

The Ritz Cinema, in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, was saved by a group of volunteers who took control in March 1995.

To celebrate the anniversary, nine of the most popular films shown recently at the Ritz Cinema will get a second screening this month.

Films including A Bug's Life, The Full Monty, Toy Story, Little Voice, Shakespeare in Love, Billy Elliot, Chicago, Chicken Run and Finding Nemo will be shown at the cinema until March 13.

Major improvements to the building have been undertaken since the volunteers took control. Current work will provide new toilets, disabled facilities and a meeting room available for hire.

Funding for the work has come from the Market Town Initiative and the cinema's funds, plus donations from charity trustees and North Yorkshire County Council.

Tickets cost £4, or £3 for children under 15, seniors, matinees and all shows on Mondays. Call (01845) 524751.

Published: 05/03/2005