Top supporters backing film group's seat sponsorship scheme for new cinema

Political and public sector leaders, as well as businesses and community groups, are among those to have pledged their backing

The group, which is run by volunteers, is constructing a 135-seat cinema on an upper floor at Leigh Spinners Mill.

With public income-generating events suspended, the charity came up with the idea of meeting the costs of building the venue by offering people the chance to put a plaque on one of the seats.

High-profile supporters include former Wigan Council chief executive Donna Hall, who has sponsored a chair because her father was from Leigh and loved the magic of the movies, and Greater Manchester night tsar Sacha Lord.

Not-for-profit and grassroots groups from across the borough, along with companies and film fans, have also snapped up seats.

Ms Hall said: “Leigh Film Society are supporting so many local people stay socially connected through the power of great films and conversation.

“My dad was born in Leigh and loved going to the pictures. He would be very proud to have a seat with his name on it and I hope all who visit the cinema enjoy this amazing new facility in one of the most wonderful buildings in the north of England.”

Mr Lord said: “All aspects of our culture sector have been hugely affected by the coronavirus crisis and many will sadly not be able to reopen. It’s therefore vital that we help as many operators as we can.

“I’m pleased to support the Leigh Film Society and the community cinema at Spinners Mill. I thought this initiative was a really novel way of raising money. I look forward to visiting in the future.”

Other supporters include former Leigh MP Jo Platt, senior Wigan Council employees, the Leigh Neighbours project, not-for-profit group True Colours CIC, amateur sports clubs from Atherton, national and independent businesses and individuals.

Leigh Film Society development director Elizabeth Costello said: “We didn’t expect this level of support. It feels like the borough is building the cinema.

“The cinema is going to be a venue for our town and culture in all its forms. It will belong to the people of Leigh.”

To find out more or sponsor a seat visit www.leighfilmsociety.com