THE Pavilion Cinema in Galashiels is considering shutting most of the week in an attempt to offset the impact of coronavirus.

The family-owned cinema may soon only show films from Friday until Sunday, with the hope of returning to normal in December.

Andrew Poole, who has been manager of the Market Street cinema for 27 years, says cinemas are operating in “extremely difficult circumstances”.

“Us cinemas are experiencing the toughest times we have had to deal with,” he said. “There are monumental challenges facing all of us.”

The news comes in the same week that Cineworld revealed it will temporarily close its UK cinemas, while Odeon will shut a quarter of its screens from Monday to Friday.

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One contributing factor is the delayed release of the new James Bond film No Time to Die for a second time, after it was announced the film would be pushed back until April 2.

The news provided a big blow to cinemas relying on the latest edition of the blockbuster series to get people back in theatres.

Mr Poole says the delay “is not good news at all” but the problem goes beyond Bond.

“It’s not the only film, there are probably 30 or 40 films since April that have been moved to later dates,” he said.

“We have been operating this cinema for 41 years. It looked at one point like our entire livelihoods would be taken away from us.

“It’s so much harder to keep trying when as a cinema we don’t have films to show. Lockdown has been difficult for our family, like all families.”

'We have a duty to our employees'

The Pavilion is considering only opening between Friday and Sunday following the October school break, which will end on October 19.

The temporary closure will last until December, should the Pavilion decide to go ahead with it.

Mr Poole says the cinema is currently operating at as little as 10 per cent of its previous level prior to the coronavirus pandemic, adding that the current situation is “not viable with seven days' outgoings”.

“In order for the business to survive, as heartbreaking as it is, we have to consider it [closing four days a week],” said Mr Poole. “We have a duty to our employees to ensure they have a job and we have to make sure the business survives.”

The Pavilion, which installed a new sound system in their screens during lockdown, is celebrating its centenary year having opened in 1920 and Mr Poole thanked Borderers for their support.

“One reason for the cinema’s ability to operate for 100 years is because of the incredible support from Borders people,” he said. “We are extremely grateful for their continued support.

“Our focus is on ensuring that the cinema is here for another 100 years.”