AROUND 180 guests put on their finest wares and came together to celebrate the launch of the The Brewhouse Cinema last night.

Guests included the Mayor and Mayoress, councillors, members of the press, arts, businesses, hotel and tourism staff and their friends and family.

The evening began with a drinks reception and entertainment from a pianist and a close-up magician. Robert Miles, artistic director and chief executive of The Brewhouse, gave a speech celebrating its work and the excitement surrounding the new cinema.

Guests were then treated to a screening of Oscar-winning film The Artist.

Public screenings start today and visitors can expect to find a range of independent, European and world films to choose from, including Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, 360, and Headhunters.

Visit www.thebrewhouse.net/cinema.php for full listings.

Tickets cost £6, concessions £5 with an Unlimited Cinema Pass priced at £10 a month. They can be booked online at www.thebrewhouse.net or by calling 01823-283244.