Don't whinge! Support Howden cinema

Published on 8th February 2007 in Letters

Sir - I am writing in response to 'Howden Resident's' letter 'Cinema Plans Disappointing' in the Goole Times (February 1). I must refer to the letter writer in this way, as they have not had the conviction to include their name on the letter and really stand up to be counted. I must also respond in this public way as they have neglected to have the courage or sense to come into the office and simply ask about these issues. However, I must also thank 'Howden Resident' for the extra publicity!

Firstly, I must say that in a perfect world, the Howden Cinema would show new-release films and we would have Tom Cruise pop in for the premiere (or Ewan McGregor, since in that world we would probably have shown Miss Potter!). However, The Shire Hall was not built as a cinema, nor will it be solely used as one hereafter. The restriction on space that multi-use creates means that a 'reel-to-reel' projector and equipment is neither physically nor financially viable within Howden Shire Hall. The equipment we have installed is therefore digital. D-cinema is fairly new, having been around for only a few years and is up-and-coming as a way of operating film showings. The production companies who choose when to release films are increasingly worried about piracy, which is a problem that costs the industry millions, and therefore there is a period when these companies are reluctant to release DVD versions of these films until they have generated sufficient revenue from people at the multiplexes and 'film' cinemas. Hopefully in the future, extra measures will be put in place and the time gap (currently about three months) will be eliminated.

I heartily apologise that the premiere is not to your taste 'Howden Resident'. We were trying very hard to get Casino Royale, but it will not be available until after our date. I honestly believe that Howden residents may enjoy the idea of dressing up and being treated to a glamorous night out to support a new initiative which has been put in place for the enhancement of the town. I also think that £10 for a full evening out, including a glass of wine and canapés, a talk from a film expert, and a showing on a six metre screen is not bad value, but then like 'Howden Resident' suggests, it's easier just to "spend the evening at home"!

All cinema showings will be £3 for concessions. If young people choose to spend that money on sweets and not a film, and want to stand around outside, then we must all accept that perhaps that is what they actually want to do. I only think we should give them the respect to make that choice.

I do not mean for this letter to seem unduly bitter, however in my office, in the centre of town, I often have to listen to people complaining and picking holes in the efforts of anyone who actually does anything to improve opportunities in the town. These negative, hindsighted views will only ever serve to put active people off trying, and ultimately end up leaving places like Howden to rot in inactivity. Myself, and the other people "behind the project" have spent a huge amount of time applying for and raising funds, planning, worrying, installing, and publicising the venture. I am sorry that our blood, sweat and tears have not been good enough for you. I am encouraged by those people who have come into the office and shown their support, my sincere thanks go out to them.

Despite the criticism, the others and I at The Shire Hall, will carry on working hard to give Howden the best facilities we feasibly can. Anyone wishing to discuss concerns about the cinema is absolutely welcome to do so with me at the Shire Hall office.

Tessa Rivers

Shire Hall Manager

and Howden Resident