A NIGHT out at the pictures is proving popular, say the team behind the new cinema launched in Okehampton two weeks ago. The New Carlton Cinema in Market Street has been created in the last few months following conversion of the town council-owned market hall. Sarah Baker, general manager of the New Carlton Cinema, said everyone connected with the project had been excited by the opening week. She said: 'It has gone really well. People have been so nice. 'It is probably a bit quieter with it being the Christmas week, but everyone who has come in seems to be impressed with it.' Following a race against time to complete the conversion works, the new cinema opened to the public on Saturday, December 23, was open on Christmas Eve and again on Boxing Day. A special private screening of the new James Bond movie Casino Royale was held on Friday, December 22, for members of Okehampton Town Council. Sarah said: 'The councillors seemed to love it. It was an enjoyable evening for everybody.' The cinema was officially opened by Okehampton mayor Frances Luxton who ceremonially cut a film reel prior to the screening. Cllr Luxton said: 'Everyone was very impressed. It is an amazing transformation from the market hall. It has been done to a high standard and the seats are very comfortable. 'On Saturday morning, I saw the children in town coming out and they all looked as if they had really enjoyed it.' Sarah, who previously worked at the Merlin Cinema in Redruth, said the people of Okehampton had been very friendly and she was enjoying being involved in the launch of the new venture. She praised the young enthusiastic team working at the cinema, including some part-time staff still at Okehampton College whom the firm has taken on to help them learn the ropes in the cinema business. There are two screens at the New Carlton — the 160 seater main screen and the smaller, luxury licensed screen with armchairs and sofas, seating up to 60 people. l Have you visited the new cinema? Let the Times know what you think of the new facility by emailing the letters page on tavistock@internet- today.co.uk
