January 13, 2012 4.16 pm This story is over 156 months old

Support pours in for Ritz cinema project

Mounting Support: Local residents, businesses and MP get behind the Ritz cinema revival.
Lincoln MP Karl McCartney, interior designer Katie Dayman and architect Sam Reid, look over plans for the revamp

Support for the project to revamp Lincoln’s cherished Ritz cinema is gaining momentum, as residents, the city MP and local architects get on board.

Over 100 people have joined the campaign’s Facebook group and offered their support in various ways, including taking part in the sponsor a seat appeal which offers people a season ticket or advertisement on the seat for £100.

One resident spotted 500 second hand cinema seats available, for free, in Oldham and another offered to lend a hand with his van and help collect them.

Architects and building contractors SRS Services have taken on the project and are currently awaiting survey results to establish the true state of the building.

Interior designer Katie Dayman ensured the original character of the cinema will be captured in the redevelopment.

“We want to try and retain a lot of the 1930s look and feel but ensure we have a modern twist so it can appeal across the spectrum of ages and hopefully create something beautiful,” said Dayman.

Lincoln MP Karl McCartney visited the site on Friday to look over plans and express his backing for the project and reflect on his own childhood memories of visiting his local cinema in Birkenhead.

McCartney said: “The Ritz was a popular venue and it is great it is being brought back into use and so many people have stepped forward to offer to help.

“I have some very fond memories of going somewhere very similar and watching The Cannonball Run with some mates from school on a Saturday and being surprised with the amount of Maltesers and sweets flying round the room.”

The cinema’s revival has unearthed some of its old employees who have offered their support and former usher Katy Baggott shared some memories:

“As well as selling ice cream and collecting ticket stubs we all had torches to show people to their seats and I can remember having to shine it at people who were snogging or drinking alcohol,” said Baggott.

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You can show your support for the Ritz revival or simply share memories on Facebook.