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Historic cinema saved thanks to Standard campaign

One of the oldest working cinemas in the country has been saved – with help from the Harwich and Manningtree Standard.

The future of the Electric Palace cinema, built in 1912, was under threat after a survey discovered structural faults.

The Standard joined forces with the cinema’s trustees – including Hollywood star Clive Owen who lives in the area – and has now raised, with help from the Heritage Fund, the £75,000 needed for the work to be carried out.

Editor James Wills said: “To achieve this figure in less than 12 months is a great testament the area’s community spirit.

“We were delighted at the paper to raise money ourselves at a number of events, including a quiz where our team, made of inquisitive journalists with a thirst for knowledge and current affairs, predictably finished last.”