THE Picturedrome in Holmfirth is to stop showing blockbuster movies.
New releases will no longer be shown, but the live music venue and bar are still going strong.
Owner Peter Carr said he was heartbroken at stopping showing the latest films, but he was losing money by showing them.
He added: "The whole system is geared towards the big boys and the multiplex cinemas making money.
"It is impossible for us. For the past two years the cinema has struggled, but I have battled to keep it open and showing films.
"But this year the quality of movies has been very poor and that has hit us hard.
"I have got to a point now the kids have gone back to school where I was facing about seven weeks without a film that would attract people in.
"In the end I had to call it a day."
But Mr Carr, who has been showing films in Holmfirth for more than six years, said there is a chance the big hits could return to Holmfirth in the future - and he confirmed arthouse and film club movies will continue.
"I am not confident, but there is a slight chance we may reopen - I am currently talking to some people about the possibility, but I cannot really say more than that.
"This place has become the central point of the town in many ways. And that will continue with the live gigs, but I feel sorry for the children who will not be able to come and see new releases.
"I am not blaming anybody, but some years ago we did warn people we were at a point where they either had to use it or lose it.
"Now I am afraid they have lost it."
However, live music continues at the Picturedrome.
On September 14 Joan Armatrading visits Holmfirth and on October 15 Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel return.
Then on December 17 cockney favourites Chas and Dave are expecting to draw a big crowd.
For ticket information contact 01484 222444 or log on to www.picturedrome.net.
