THE curtain will come down on the story of an historic Lake District cinema today.

The Royalty Cinema, built in the 1920s, is closing after its operators said it was 'losing too much money'. 

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It will now close its doors on Thursday and items such as digital projectors will be moved out of the premises before the lease officially expires on August 8.

The iconic Lakes cinema has been run by Charles Morris for decades. 

Windermere & Bowness Town Council has paid tribute to the director and his cinema.

A spokesperson said: "On behalf of the Mayor and Windermere & Bowness Town Council we would like to thank Mr Morris for the many years of entertainment he has provided to our town.

"We all have many special memories of visits to Royalty Cinema - enjoying films in the beautiful art deco building, the interval ice creams, leaning over the balcony and listening to the Wurlitzer organ. 

"We realise the challenges Mr Morris has faced following on from changes in viewing patterns since the covid lockdowns and understand his decision. 

"The Royalty Cinema is a much-loved part of our community and we are pleased to learn the Westmorland and Furness Council are in talks with a business to take over the running of the cinema. We very much hope that it won't be too long before an announcement is made and look forward to visiting the Royalty Cinema again in the future."

The venue was built by public subscription and opened as the Public Hall in 1927.

Built in the Art Deco aesthetic of the time, a stage was constructed and a flat maple floor placed downstairs. 

In its early years, dances were held along with professional theatre productions  and amateur performances. 

The cinema's first opening programme included a variety bill featuring the film ‘The Wanderer’ - a silent film drama from 1925 directed by Raoul Walsh and starring Wallace Beery and Tyrone Power. 

Westmorland and Furness council have yet to confirm if the potential new operator can take over.