THE Walney cinema, in Natal Road, was opened in 1915 in an effort to provide entertainment for thousands of extra munitions workers at Vickers during the First World War.

The North Western Daily Mail of November 2 in 1915 described the grand opening ceremony.

It noted: “It is a cosy and picturesque building, situated on a commanding position in Natal Road, overlooking the promenade, and promises to become a favourite place of entertainment to residents on the island and Barrow people generally.

“The theatre has accommodation for about 700 people and every available seat was taken up on the opening night, which could not have been attended with more brilliant success.

“Mr Will Catlin, the well-known entertainer, of Scarborough, is the managing director, and Mr S. Dring is the local manager.

“No expense had been spared for the opening, and it rarely that such a magnificent galaxy of talent has been heard in this district as comprised in the various star artistes who charmed the crowded audience.

“The proceeds on that occasion were devoted to the Mayor’s War Fund. “Many people were turned away, such was the demand for accommodation.”

Sir Vincent Caillard, a director of Vickers, presided and Lord D’Abernon came from London to perform the opening.

Lord D’Abernon said Vickers would not be involved in the management of the cinema but had been involved in setting it up for the benefit of yard workers.

Performers included Mr Jose Soler Gomez, court, violinist to the king of Spain.

Lord D’Abernon was chairman of the Central Control Board for the sale of liquor.

The cinema also had variety shows and concerts and was a venue for Walney Amateurs.

Among the early film which may have been enjoyed at Walney cinema was the April 1915 release called A Jitney Elopement starring comic Charlie Chaplin

The cinema eventually closed on June 20th in 1959.

In the 1960s it hosted bingo sessions.

By 1967 the building was in a poor state of repair and there were complaints about its safety.

A new use was found for the building by 1968 as a supermarket for Lewis’s.

The former cinema was demolished in November 1985.