BLAENAVON’S Workmen’s Hall Cinema has unveiled £20,000 worth of plush new seating.

The latest upgrade, which was half-funded by the Town Council, to the cinema means it now offers a more comfortable viewing experience in 70 wider, softer fabric seats with drink holders and more space between.

Rod Denley-Jones, chair of the Workmen’s Hall company, said: “Following the installation of new projection equipment almost two years ago, we quickly realised that the only thing letting us down was the comfort of the seats.

“We decided that to compete with neighbouring cinemas we needed to have new high-end seats providing more comfort, room and neck support. We’re thrilled with both the way in which they improve the look of the room and the superior viewing experience they give.

“Obviously, we want to give a massive thanks to the Town Council for their £10,000 award, without which we would have undoubtedly waited another few years to raise the money.”

The Workmen’s Hall is also celebrating after receiving funding of almost £280,000 towards a major programme of repairs and improvements - thanks to a collaboration between Torfaen Council, the Workmen’s Hall Company, Blaenavon Heritage Museum, the Town Council and Welsh Government.

Anyone who can support the cinema either through volunteering time to run evening screenings or by contributing to the programming effort, should contact Rod Denley-Jones on 01495 792661 or via blaenavoncinema@gmail.com