Appledore

This cinema building is situated in the narrow streets of Appledore, at 109
Irsha Street. The building was a conversion from a chapel and is believed to
have opened during the 1920s. Run by G Taylor, Edibell then Browns sound
systems were installed during the 1930s. At one time it had 500 seats,
although this was soon reduced to 300. There was a stage 9' deep and had
one dressing room for live shows. The proscenium was 17' wide.

After the war C G Horton ran the cinema using Gyrotone sound. By 1950s
ownership had passed to Thomas Godfrey Wilde who switched to 16mm
operation. Initially using Debrie sound, later GB Kalee. At this time a
widescreen was added, 13' by 8' inside a widened 21' proscenium. Mr Wilde's
last licence expired 09.02.1959 and was not renewed. The last film was The
Duke wore Jeans.

Subsequently the rear of the building has been converted into a house,
however the foyer, projection box and auditorium are said to remain much as
they were when the cinema closed. A sign over the door reminds people of
the former use of this building. The building is being converted into flats, so
what will happen to the interior is not known at present.