THE owners of a Ryedale cinema have expressed their “frustration” at having to close only weeks after reopening from the first lockdown.

Jeremy and Caroline Powell, who run the Palace Cinema in Malton, re-opened on October 2, following months of closure.

The couple said it has been touching to receive support from patrons since re-opening, and have applied for financial support from the BFI Culture Recovery Fund for Independent Cinemas in England.

“In line with government’s instruction, the Palace Cinema will not be opening until December 3, the day after the official restart date to be able to get everything set for the reopening on the Friday,” said Jeremy, who is managing director.

“It is sad and frustrating to have reopened on October 2, to have had such good response from our patrons to our Covid-19 safety measures and the films we have found both for fun or engaging stories. We have been so touched by the patron’s support which makes us all feel so positive.

“There is, however, no more important goal than to save lives and whilst it is frustrating for us we also accept that the overall goal is both serious and necessary.

“We are eagerly awaiting the result of our application to the BFI Culture Recovery Fund for Independent Cinemas in England, which would make the disturbance to our being open more a comfortable prospect.

“There is no doubt about the serious nature of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Even though we feel we have produced a Covid-19 secure environment, we respect the government’s decision for a brief lockdown, the consequence of which does mean that the film release schedule will be pushed back further meaning the good times are ever further away.

“The big thing for us is that our customers and patrons know we will be back as soon as we are able to be open again in December.”

Visit www.palacemalton.info