Dig deep for open air films
OPEN air cinema in Southport may not take place in future – unless people who sneak in free start paying.
The Friends Of King’s Gardens stage the popular summer night events, with The Greatest Showman a popular draw this summer.
The volunteers don’t charge people to attend but invite donations, at a suggested £2, to fund the events.
But a King’s Gardens spokesman said: “A very sad point to have to report on is the less than generous nature of some people who attend our events, in particular the cinema events.
“Those of you who kindly donate without hesitation to the events will perhaps be surprised at the fact that some folk do not offer any donation whatsoever.
“It is very difficult to believe, we know, but if this continues then our events will become fewer and fewer until perhaps they are no more.
“This would be a very sad day for all of you who have gracefully supported us and indeed for ourselves too as these unique and very special gardens are one of the many joys of Southport.
“If you are attending and not paying could you please put this right.”
The Friends Of King’s Gardens are also appealing for more helpers to join them, so families can continue to enjoy the many events at the park.
The spokesman said: “As we head towards the end of the year we reflect on our past events and future ones that may take place – with the emphasis being on the ‘may take place’.
“King’s Gardens is a registered charity, therefore we rely on our band of loyal and hard-working volunteers very much and here lies one of our problems. Despite repeat requests in our local newspapers and on our Facebook page, we are having hardly any response from the general public out there, particularly local residents.”
He added: “Events need to be organised, stands set out, refreshments served, donations collected, clearing up after the events etc.
“Our small team is struggling to complete all of the latter... therefore if you can only come along and assist us for an hour or two it would be immensely helpful.”
The friends also help withe the upkeep of the gardens, and the spokesman said: “Our small gardening bunch who work a couple of hours midweek would love you to join them, again if you wish to do an hour, that’s fine, longer is fine too.”
“We meet once per month in the Clifton Hotel and again if you can attend that would be marvellous; if you cannot you • Early evening menu up to 6.45pm
• Christmas Party Menu for 10 or more guests available
Monday to Saturday Lunch and Monday to Thursday Evening • Our Famous Weekend Reveller Nights throughout December
with Live Music and a DJ to finish
• The Festive Baker’s Dozen; A selection of 13 smaller dishes
available at lunch time Mon - Sat
• Our Inspired, Extensive A La Carte Menu with Market Specials • Freshly Cut Sandwiches and Hot Baguettes
• Traditional Sunday Roast Lunches, 12 - 8pm can be updated by our secretary, Geraldine.”
The friends say they are hoping to change the format for next year and put on something different.
Among the ideas are a 1940s event and a music afternoon.
They are also holding their first Christmas fair at 12noon on Saturday, November 2 in The Temperance Institute in London Street.