UGC Cinemas, Europe's leading cinema chain, opens its new complex in Middlesbrough on Friday.

The cinema brings a major regeneration boost to the local community, both in the way of investment and job creation.

Mike Thomson, commercial director of UGC Cinemas, said: "UGC has made an £8m investment in Middlesbrough, creating more than 70 jobs and a cinema experience that offers a great choice of film and caters for a wide audience."

The cinema boasts 11 wall-to-wall screens and 2,564 seats.

The movie experience is enhanced by the latest "black box" auditoria and digital sound and vision.

There is a licensed bar and a children's party room catering for birthdays and other celebrations.

The UGC Cinema is in Marton Road, off the junction from the A66 dual carriageway.