TheGranadaMansfield.co.uk — a not-for-profit website dedicated to preserving the history of Mansfield’s iconic Granada cinema — has received a major boost from television channel Talking Pictures TV.

The UK channel, dedicated to classic film and television, has committed to sponsoring the website for the next year, ensuring its continued operation.

Talking Pictures TV first collaborated with TheGranadaMansfield.co.uk last year while researching content for its popular Footage Detectives programme. Impressed by the site’s extensive archive and dedication to preserving local history, the company was eager to support its future.

Website founder Ian ‘Watko’ Watkins said: “We’re absolutely thrilled that Talking Pictures TV has chosen to sponsor us.
“Their support means we can continue sharing the rich history of Mansfield’s Granada cinema with the community and beyond.”

Neil Cronin, founder of Talking Pictures TV, and Mike Reid, of the Footage Detectives, added: “It is a great piece of history. They need to keep it going because it is part of cinema history that’s too easily lost.

“Thank you, Ian. It’s really good! I hope we can help in some way to keep the site flourishing and thank you to everyone who sends in the lovely memories.”

The Granada Mansfield website was put together with the help of former employees of the theatre and serves as a local resource for film and cinema history enthusiasts, providing a detailed archive of one of the town’s most cherished venues.

The theatre on West Gate was an important entertainment hub in the town. It was not only a cinema, it also hosted many popular groups of the 60s, including two visits from The Beatles in 1963.

Due to changing entertainment habits, the venue was closed and demolished in 1973.

Ian added: “The sponsorship from Talking Pictures TV will help maintain and expand the website, ensuring that this important piece of cultural history remains accessible for years to come.”

For more information about the website, go to thegranadamansfield.co.uk

Click here to watch a special Footage Detectives clip made for Talking Pictures TV’s sponsorship of the website.