Friday, April 18, to Saturday, April 26, is Film Week at the Hippodrome Theatre, Halifax Road, Todmorden, when, presented by theatre owners Todmorden Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society, the great days of cinema return.

That includes something for everyone too as it is hoped to show a wide range of films across the eight days including family films, adventure films, classic films, children's films, art house films, comedies, overseas films, musicals and many more.

The Hippodrome ran as a professional cinema from around 1912 for more than 40 years, closing on June 21, 1956, when the last film shown was O.S.S. starring Alan Ladd.

Brian Rogers was the last projectionist at the theatre for Hartley Cinemas, the then owners, in the 1950s and TAODS are pleased to announce that Brian has agreed to press the button to start Film Week on that first Friday evening.

A spokesman for TAODS said: "Since the 1950s there have been a few attempts to get cinema back to Todmorden but must have not lasted long for various reasons. TAODS has decided to concentrate all its efforts into a fabulous one-week programme.

"The week will be fully funded with a cinema quality digital projector hired for the week and a tremendous range of more than 15 films to suit all ages and tastes and at various times in the day," he said.

Publicity including local press ads, flyers and posters will fill in the detail nearer the time, said the spokesman who added: "It is our hope that we will get every member of the population of Todmorden through the doors at some time during the week."

Prices will be as low as £4 (£3 for children and the over 60s), said the spokesman. Tickets for individual films will only be available on the door but passes for four or more films will be available in advance at very favourable rates, he said.

"We know that many films are available on TV and DVD but not many of us have a 21 feet wide screen and we feel sure that the atmosphere of the cinema will be well worth the few pounds entrance fee.

"As you may imagine, an event like this takes a great deal of organising and we have a small hard-working group of people doing the jobs. If there is anyone out there with an interest in films and a bit of spare time, particularly during the day, who would like to get involved we would be pleased to hear from you," said the spokesman.

Those interested in helping out should contact David Winslow on 01706 816326 or call in to Winslow Opticians, Halifax Road, Todmorden.

Finally, the TAODS spokesman said: "If you ask 'will this be the start of regular cinema at the Hippodrome' I have to say it depends how well this is supported, both by audiences and volunteer helpers."