February 25, 2013 10.32 am This story is over 133 months old

In pictures: Films return to silver screen at The Ritz

Landmark date: In a special birthday event, the 1936 film San Francisco was screened as The Ritz Cinema in Lincoln reopened its doors for the first time in 17 years.

The Ritz Cinema on Lincoln High Street celebrated its 76th birthday with the first film screening in almost two decades.

In a special birthday event on Friday, the 1936 film San Francisco was screened as the venue reopened its doors for the first time in 17 years.

The guests were greeted on arrival by 1940s singing act Heather Marie and a champagne reception.

Most guests got into the spirit by dressing in full 1940s outfits.

Pete Genders, CEO of The Ritz Cinema & Theatre, said: “It was great to fling open the doors and finally welcome people in to see how we are getting on with the restoration. We still have a fair way to go but we are progressing well and the building is starting to take shape.”

The screening event was part of several fundraising events being organised at The Ritz, taking place over the next few months in the run up to the venue reopening as a fully operation cinema and theatre venue.

A full list of fundraising events can be found on EventBrite.