Wetherspoon to turn cinema into pub

JD Wetherspoon is taking on another unusual venue in the form of an historic grade-II listed cinema in Northumberland.

The Wallaw Cinema in Blyth was built with 1,441 seats in 1937 and has been derelict for seven years.

It was given listed status in the late 90s, partly because it is considered to be the best remaining work of north-east cinema designer Percy Lindsay Browne.

"We can confirm that Wetherspoon is in negotiations to purchase the former Wallow cinema in Blyth," said Wetherspoons spokesman Eddie Gershon.

"The company has also submitted a planning application to convert the derelict building into a Wetherspoon pub.

"Wetherspoon has enjoyed great success in the region and we are keen to open a pub in Blyth.

"Wetherspoon has an excellent reputation for converting an array of former buildings, including cinemas, into pubs.

"We believe that our style of pub will appeal to a wide range of people in the town and be an asset to the area."

The venue gave TV duo Ant and Dec their stage debut in the early 90s and has also hosted acts inclduing Ken Dodd and Freddie Starr.