A projectionist has recalled memories of a bygone era after £27million plans for a university in Southend's former Odeon cinema were revealed.
Golden days - former Odeon projectionist Mike Ford reflects on the past Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL V9AYJ6
Mike Ford, 41, of Chichester Road, joined after leaving school and stayed for 18 years. When the Elmer Approach cinema closed for the last time in April 1997 he continued working at the new Odeon in Victoria Circus.
His more than 20 years service to Odeon cinemas has just been rewarded with the Frank Littlejohn Award for "outstanding achievement in the art of film projection".
But he still savours the memories of working in a building that once saw Laurel and Hardy and The Beatles entertain tens of thousands.
He said: "The whole place is so full of memories. The atmosphere while working there was unbelievable."
Published Friday January 23, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article