Cinema volunteers commended (From Mid Devon Star)

Cinema volunteers commended

6:58pm Sunday 5th August 2007 in News By Mid Devon Star Reporter

WITH only a matter of weeks until the fate of the Tivoli cinema in Tiverton is revealed, two volunteers who work there are being commended.

Jack Mullinger and Ken Cornish have been the backbone of the Tivoli cinema for the past 12 years during which they have both volunteered to work every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Bryn Williams, who has led the campaign to rally support for the cinema as its future hangs in the balance, said: "Their tireless dedication to the cinema and its patrons is remarkable."

Jack joined manager Mike Jackson at the Tivoli when Mike took over the lease in 1995 and Ken joined them shortly afterwards.

Mr Willaims said: "Both these stalwarts are retiring from the Tivoli when the lease expires on August 25 and I'm sure many people will want to thank them for their dedication to the cinema and the warm and friendly way they carry out their duties.

"All the volunteers and staff deserve credit for the high reputation the Tivoli enjoys but these two guys in particular have been very conscientious in providing not just showtime support - film projection, selling tickets - but also working many hours at other times of the week - decorating, upholstery, building repairs, cleaning, completing weekly accounts and many other sundry tasks."

He added: "I would like to wish them both a very long and happy retirement and thank them very sincerely for the contribution they have both made to life in Tiverton in general and to the Tivoli in particular."

Campaigners are waiting to find out whether the owner of the cinema will keep the much-loved cinema after manager Mike Jackson announced he would be retiring this August.

As of yet, cinema owner Francis Eastmond has made no indication what lies for the 75-year-old cinema.