Cromarty Cinema cancels all screenings in wake of coronavirus pandemic; Cromarty and Resolis Film Society announced the temporary closure following Covid-19 advice from the UK government
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THE Cromarty Community Cinema is to temporarily close its doors as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
The village cinema, which only opened its doors to a delighted Black Isle public six weeks ago, took the decision this morning following last night's UK government advice about the Covid-19 virus.
A spokesman for the Trustees of the Cromarty and Resolis Film Society, which operates the cinema, said the decision had been taken to ensure that its volunteers and audiences remained safe.
But they added that their finances were strong and the cinema would be back in action once the virus “has run its course”.
The spokesman said: “Following the UK government announcement on Monday to step up measures to fight the coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic - reinforced by guidance from both the Scottish Government and UK Theatre/the Society of London Theatre - Cromarty and Resolis Film Society Trustees have taken the decision to temporarily close the Cromarty Cinema. This decision was taken on Tuesday and is effective immediately.
“At this stage, we do not know how long the closure and suspension of our film showings will last. We will continue to follow government advice as it is issued.
“This is an incredibly complex and fast-moving situation and it is with a heavy heart that we have taken this decision but the safety of all volunteers and audiences is our number one priority.
“Please note that although we have only recently opened the cinema, in partnership with Eden Court, the Film Society and Cinema is well positioned to cope with a temporary closure.
“We have no debt and our recurring monthly costs are minimal so when the coronavirus has run its course we will be able to restart our screenings.
“The support and response we have had from volunteers and audiences in the six weeks that we have been open has been fantastic and means everything to us.
“We looking forward to welcoming you all back to our cinema, in happier times, once this is behind us all. In the meantime, stay safe.
“Thank you.”
News of the temporary closure follows similar announcements by leading cinema chains across the UK, including Odeon and Cineworld.
At the time of writing, Eden Court in Inverness was also hinting at disruption to its programme, but had yet to confirm what shape this might take.
And the Highland capital's popular Ironworks music venue also announced its temporary closure.
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