THOUSANDS of Inverclyde locals have enjoyed special film screenings thanks to a Waterfront Cinema initiative aimed at older audiences.
The Tele paid a visit to one of the Greenock cinema’s ‘silver screen’ events which gives members of the local community the chance to come together for a tea or coffee and enjoy a film.
The project, which started in September 2022, has steadily grown in popularity and now draws almost 100 people every week.
Many of those taking part told the Telegraph that the event had given them a much-needed opportunity to get out the house and meet with other people in the community.
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Waterfront Cinema duty manager Ava Cameron said: “We’ve had 6,729 admissions since we first started this.
“It gives a community for the people who come along.
“We have regulars who don’t even mind what’s on sometimes, they just like coming along and being out in a warm place.
“We mix between newer releases and older stuff.
“Some of the people coming along have ended up on first name basis and have started spending time together doing things like going out on walks.
“We’ve had a lot of people coming in who have said they’re quite lonely and that this has given them something to get out of bed for.
“It’s been fabulous to hear that.”
The showings take place at the cinema every Tuesday at 11:15am, with a ticket costing £4.
Regular attendee John Kelly, 84, said that an amazing community had formed among the people who came along to the showings.
He said: “It’s great, it’s nice and warm and you get a nice cup of tea and biscuits.
“It used to cost £3 and now it’s gone up to £4 and it’s still worth every penny.
“It gives me an extra chance and it’s something I look forward to every week, it’s a highlight.
“Cinemas need to be doing more of these kinds of communities events, without a doubt.
“In our climate where it can be so miserable and horrible it’s good to be able to get a wee day out.”
Fellow pensioner Winnie Cook, 90, said she enjoyed getting the chance to mingle with other people before the film begins.
She said: “We’ve been coming for about 11 weeks.
“It’s excellent, I like getting out for a wee while and the selection of films is really good.
“Mixing with other folk from the community is brilliant, I’m glad they do it because it’s something to look forward to.
“The staff here are very helpful and obliging, they’ll do anything for you.”
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