Regal owner shares memories (From Northwich Guardian)

Regal owner shares memories

10:30am Thursday 31st January 2013 in News By Gina Bebbington

A MAN whose family has owned cinemas in Northwich for four generations said he was sad to see the Regal go but hoped it would be a rebirth for town.

Will Godfrey, who owned the Regal and owns the Plaza, was present as Screen Two was demolished.

“I didn’t realise it would go so quickly,” he said.

“I feel a mixture of sadness because of the history – four generations of history – but I’m also glad because it was more heartbreaking seeing it getting worse and worse.

“It was becoming more derelict and it was heartbreaking having to deal with break-ins and vandalism.”

Will has many special memories of virtually growing up in the Regal.

“It has so many memories for me but I think the main one was of the queues.

“And of the blue reserved signs we used to have on the seats – as a child it used to make you feel you were someone special.

“But we were caught in changing times as larger corporations were taking over the business, the independents have died away.

“I hope the Northwich Cinema Trust succeeds in reopening the Plaza because to me that would be a fitting tribute to the Regal and I think it’s the most beautiful building in Northwich.”

He added: “The demolition of the Regal is a rebirth for Northwich – there’s a good project coming forward that will bring money to Northwich.”