A PROUDLY independent cinema is celebrating its 80th anniversary as a major entertainment destination in South Lakeland.

The Roxy in Ulverston, which stands proud in its 1930s Art Deco building on Brodgen Street in Ulverston, celebrated the milestone yesterday, marking 80 years since it first opened its doors.

Its first showing was of the 1937 film 'Rose Marie', starring Jeanette MacDonald and Nelson Eddy.

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To celebrate the occasion, owner Charles Morris held a reception before showing the iconic action-packed tale 'The Adventures of Robin Hood'.

On why he chose the film, Mr Morris said: "We were looking at films released in 1937, and we strayed into the next year and landed on this version of Robin Hood.

"It is the iconic version that everybody knows about. It was one of the earliest Technicolour films, and has lots of good action that we thought everybody would enjoy."

Alongside the film, which stars the likes of Errol Flynn and Olivia de Havilland, jazz band The Roxettes played at the reception, at which canapes and wine were served.

Speaking of the longevity and popularity of The Roxy, Mr Morris said: "The building itself has a charm of its own. It also contains the biggest screen in Cumbria. We use digital projection, as well as stereo sound, so it's a good experience to come and watch a film here.

"As we are completely independent we can do things the way we want.

"We have an interval, which people seem to like, as they can get up and have refreshments. We have people telling us that they like that.

"We also stray more towards thought-provoking films, as well as the big ones. We have a very diverse programme.

"Our service is very personal, which is something that the big chains are devoid of."

Mr Morris owns a number of independent cinemas, including some in Yorkshire. They are all completely independent and receive no money in the form of grants. Everything is paid for by box office receipts.

"Most old cinemas are in independent hands now," said Mr Morris. "The personal approach is what's kept us going. The cinema was losing money when I took it over 11 years ago but we've turned it around."

All of the profits from the anniversary celebration were donated to the town's St Mary's Hospice.