A campaign to save a much-loved old cinema is being backed by the Bristol Evening Post.

The ABC cinema in Whiteladies Road is being turned into a health and leisure club after owners Odeon sold the building with a clause that no films could be shown there in future.

Furious film-goers reacted to the plans by organising a Save the ABC group to put pressure on Odeon to axe the clause.

And now the Evening Post is putting its weight behind the campaign.

The paper is printing coupons for readers to fill out registering their disappointment at the plans.

Editor Mike Lowe said: “We’re sure that many readers will want to join us in the fight to save this cinema, which is full of character and an asset to the area.

“There are too few cinemas left in traditional neighbourhoods, and we must prevent this one being lost.”

Campaign co-ordinator, Hattie Appleby, was delighted with the Post’s support.

She said: “I’m absolutely thrilled. We need as many people as possible writing letters, and objecting to the developers getting listed building consent.”

Actors including Tony Robinson and Paul McGann have also given their support to their campaign.