Westway Cinema officially opens with ribbon cutting

THE official opening of Westway Cinema took place earlier this month, with invited guests toasting to the success and future of the cinema.

Since re-opening in February, the traditional, independent cinema has received nothing but praise from local people with movie-lovers queuing out of the door to get their tickets for blockbuster films.

Owner Beryl Scott said, “We have been open for a while but we wanted to make sure everything was running smoothly before we had an official opening.

“It was a lovely evening and we’re grateful to all those who came. We were especially pleased to welcome Delores O’Connor to cut the ribbon and officially open the cinema, it was important to us that she was there.”

The cinema was originally owned and run by Denis and Dolores O’Connor and later by their daughter, Martina.

Delores was invited by new owners, Pat and Beryl Scott, to cut the ribbon to officially open the cinema at the special event.

Delores said, “We had known Pat and Beryl for years so when they said they were going to re-open the cinema I was absolutely delighted and to see the renovation is wonderful.

“What they have done to the cinema is amazing and I’m so pleased they have brought the cinema back to life. I was delighted to be asked to cut the ribbon – they have transformed the cinema and it’s brilliant that the town has it back for everyone to enjoy.”

Mayor of Frome, cllr Sheila Gore said, “Pat and Beryl Scott have enabled a wonderful upgrade to a well-loved cinema that has provided entertainment for Frome over many years. It was good to be able to show appreciation, on behalf of the town council, for a great example of how independent, small scale, entrepreneurship can provide a fantastic service.

“One tip, make sure you book a ticket when you go – with a bargain ticket price, comfy seats and excellent sound and vision,  it’s tremendously popular! I wish the Westway all the very best for the future.”

Deputy Mayor of Frome, cllr Nick White who attended the event said, “I had been a couple of times previously and was very impressed with what they have achieved with the refit.

“They have obviously invested a lot of money, creating a top quality miniplex and they are to be applauded for taking on such a business and putting their faith in Frome.

“At £4 a ticket it is in the range of most children’s pocket money and as a result, they can use it on a regular basis. It will also help in building up Frome’s night time economy. It may even come to the rescue of some of our bus services. Why spend a fortune visiting Trowbridge or Bath when you can come in the other direction to Frome!

“I wish them every success and want to thank them for what they have done for the town.”