THE silver screen is returning to Wilmslow after 23 years thanks to the family who restored The Savoy Cinema in Heaton Moor.

The Rex Cinema is being re-opened by the Mundin family, and will offer everything from Hollywood blockbusters, independent films and weekend matinees to live satellite broadcasts from the National Theatre and the Royal Opera House.

The Rex Revival Group has been campaigning for the return of the Rex.

“We are elated to finally announce that the Rex cinema is definitely returning,” said group leader Sophie Taylor.

“The new owners of The Rex cinema are the Mundin family, who so far have lovingly restored three cinemas in the UK.

“Of these, you will probably be most familiar with The Savoy in Heaton Moor, which we could only love more if it was in the Rex building.

“We have developed good relations with the Mundins, and couldn't be happier that they are the people who are restoring the Rex.

“They are community-focused and have a passion for creating quality cinema experiences.

“To learn more about the family, and how to become a member of The Rex, please visit rexcinemawilmslow.com

“We would like to thank everyone once again for all your support and encouragement, which has fuelled us for the past eight months.

“We ask you to please show your support for the Rex by signing up when membership opens, and using the cinema as much as you can. Let's keep the cinema!”

Sophie Mundin said: “We are delighted to announce that the Rex will re-open in the near future to bring cinema, and much more, back into the heart of Wilmslow.

"The cinema is undergoing a dramatic transformation to bring you luxury, comfort, service and the latest technology.

“Our digital projection and 7.1 surround sound will create the perfect balance for a fully immersive cinema experience.

“When the lights go down and the curtains go up, you will be transported to another world."

Angela McPake, vice-chairman of Wilmslow Town Council said: "We are absolutely thrilled that a cinema will be coming back to Wilmslow and the Rex will be at the heart of the town again.

"Our thanks go to the Mundin family who were one of the first cinema groups to show interest in the Rex and have seen the potential from the beginning. We are also indebted to the landlords, the Stansby family who have been prepared to consider having a cinema back in the building to reconfigure the building to make it a feasible option.

"There is no doubt that this has been an issue that has aroused a huge amount of interest from local residents, the focus of which has been the Rex Revival group on Facebook. Sophie Taylor and her core team have done a brilliant job at building that interest.

"The challenge now is to make sure we all use the cinema and that those people who can, invest in membership. We are extremely excited!"

Sophie Mundin added: “We will offer the latest Hollywood blockbusters, independent films, thought provoking documentaries, weekend matinees for all the family, special senior screenings, cult films and classics together with live satellite broadcasts from the National Theatre, Royal Shakespeare Company, Royal Opera House, Bolshoi Ballet and world class concerts from around the globe.

“We are installing a lift to our new foyer and bar area allowing access for wheel- chair users and a hearing loop and audio description will also be available.

“There will be a welcoming foyer café bar with sofas, armchairs, film books and magazines to flick through over coffee or wine.

"All the usual cinema treats will be available as well as a fully stocked bar with fine wine, craft beer, artisan gins, prosecco and homemade cake!

“In 2015 we refurbished and opened the Savoy Cinema in Heaton Moor and have helped revitalise the area with many new cafés, restaurants and bars opening allowing everyone to have a great night out on the Moor.”

The Rex first opened in 1936 with a screening of Captain Blood, starring Errol Flynn, and closed 23 years ago, in 1995, with a screening of An Awfully Big Adventure.