Category Archives: News

Posted to M32 group on facebook today. See the notes in full here. Great that there seems to be some dialogue going now, a big improvement.

Notes from the M32 meeting with Theresa Grant CEO TMBC 2/5/13

Essoldo / Longford Cinema
TG understands the value of this building to Stretford.
TG has met with the owner to discuss how TMBC can help him to get Essoldo open.
TG reported this was a very positive meeting.
TMBC are trying to do everything possible to facilitate the opening of this great building

Thought I’d mention a group in Prestwich that exist in real life as well as cyber space! They are focussed on improving Prestwich by sharing information and establishing dialogue between the residents and maybe even the council! And of course the Longford / Essoldo Prestwich is fixed firmly on their radar! Next meeting is May 16th. Find out more on their Facebook group here and don’t forget to sign up to the Longford / Essoldo Facebook group here!

Message from a reader of this site -

Currently I am engaged in Postgraduate research of the history of cinema architecture in Britain. My research is focused on the Longford and the Pyramid, Sale. Although I have a vast amount of archival material, original documents related to the interior, finishes, construction materials and substantial information on the firms used / architect I am lacking quality images of the floor plan, which is quite crucial to the research paper I am writing. Anyone that may be able to help I would be grateful for their assistance. The project is due January 7th 2013!
Thank you in advance, Leanne lmakin1@uclan.ac.uk

If you’re reading this at the right time, it will be the Longford Park Centenary festival this weekend!

So if you’re stuck for something to do, pop down to the cinemas namesake for some fun! More here.

Photo from around 1970 when people were playing bingo in cinemas!

Still no sign of activity but a Facebook group is saying that there have been some set backs but that work is still ongoing and they are aiming to open early 2012. Anyone heard different?

The subject of much discussion on our Facebook group recently – what was the film featured advertised in this shot from 1960/61. The answer – The Bulldog Breed starring Norman Wisdom. Anyone remember if first time around? Do you remember what else you saw there?

It is 75 years to the day since the Longford Cinema first opened it’s doors to the public.

During this time, the building has been a cinema, theatre, bingo hall, empty space, focal point and curiosity.

I wonder what words we’ll be using to describe this place in another 75 years time…