BARNOLDSWICK'S Centre Screen Cinema has launched an appeal towards the cost of a new projector.

Volunteers are aiming to raise £8,000 to buy a ‘4k’ machine at the Rainhall Centre after the previous machine was stolen earlier this year.

Screenings came to an abrupt halt at the Rainhall Centre in June when the high definition projector disappeared the day before a film show.

Now the volunteer group running cinema sessions aim to replace it with one that has four times better resolution.

“We were stunned when the machine went missing and stopped us having film shows at the Rainhall Centre,” said cinema volunteer David Whipp. “The cinema sessions have been running for nearly ten years as part of the Rainhall Centre’s regular activities and have been greatly appreciated by many people.

“The cinema group decided to keep pace with technology and upgrade to the new ‘4k’ standard with a new machine. As well as a projector this will need other equipment upgraded as well.

“Fundraising has already seen over £500 raised and a grant of £3,000 approved by Pendle Council’s West Craven Area Committee.

“We hope to have funding in place to allow cinema sessions to resume in October.”