Stars back bid to save cinema
THE campaign to save Blaenau Ffestiniog’s independent cinema has caught the attention of A-list film stars.
Cellb, the former police station turned community centre in Blaenau Ffestiniog faces closure after an insurance claim to repair storm damage to the building was rejected.
Non-profit organisation Gwallgofiaid has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise £10,000 to keep the centre open.
Ruthin actor Rhys Ifans has posted a video appeal urging people to get behind the cause and donate to the fund.
Speaking directly to the camera, Ifans asks viewers to help save the “extraordinary” cinema.
Speaking in two clips, one Welsh and one English, the Notting Hill star said: “A quick message to ask and to urge all of you to support in whatever way you can, the campaign to save Cellb cinema in Blaenau Ffestiniog.
“And to ensure that this extraordinary cinema run by the amazing Gwallgofiaid will be with us in Wales and Blaenau Ffestiniog for decades upon decades to come.”
Welsh Hollywood icon Michael Sheen has also got behind the campaign, taking to social media to encourage people to donate to the cause and help the centre stay open.
In a tweet, the actor said: “The first cinema in over 40 years in Blaenau Ffestiniog, now run by a social enterprise needs our help to stay open!
“If you can, please donate £6, the cost of a child’s ticket and let’s keep films running for another 40 years.”
Cellb is the first cinema in the town since the 1950s and is housed in what used to be the town’s police station.
After a storm in 2017, a burst pipe went undetected which insurers refuse to pay out for, so without the money the social enterprise may have to close.
The £10,000 appeal was launched last week and has already raised more than £6,000.