THE region's newest cinema is to preview the latest Hollywood blockbuster.

Matrix Reloaded is being released on Friday, but the 116-seat cinema at Durham's Gala Theatre will show the film from tomorrow night.

Theatre bosses say the cinema, which opened at the start of the month showing X-Men 2, is proving a success, with the first screening of Matrix Reloaded sold out.

A spokeswoman said: "We have had two full houses and the rest of the attendances have been very healthy, especially in the evenings and at weekends.

"For being a small cinema, we are very proud to be first with this film.''

The cinema opened following the closure in January of the Robins cinema.

Matrix Reloaded will be screened at 8.15pm tomorrow night, and then at 1.45pm and 4.45pm daily.

Tickets are £4.75, concessions £3.60. On Mondays, except Bank Holidays, admission is £3.

To book tickets, call 0191-332 4041.