The under-threat Screen Machine mobile cinema project has received a surprise boost from Hollywood royalty.
Regional Screen Scotland, owners of the Screen Machine, are appealing to the Scottish Government for funding to ensure its survival - but have received a boost from Dame Judi Dench.
The Oscar-winning actress, who has starred in the James Bond films alongside Daniel Craig, has written to First Minister Humza Yousaf highlighting concerns about the potential loss of the mobile cinema, which will cease operations in April if funding can not be secured.
The Screen Machine’s lease for its current cinema will end in two months, with a new cinema costing around £1.4 million to build. Regional Screen Scotland is hoping for the Scottish Government to fund 50 per cent of this and will then look to raise the remaining £700,000.
In September, Regional Screen Scotland asked its patrons and supporters to contact their political representatives to help raise awareness of its plight.
Children in Barra, in the Western Isles, contacted the actress, who also received dozens of letters from local children.
A Scottish Government spokesperson says that it understands the unique cultural contribution that the Screen Machine makes to communities, and that it would continue to liaise with relevant parties to explore any avenues for support.
The Screen Machine has been screening films to over 40 communities in the highlands and islands of Scotland since 1998.
Further information about how to help can be found at www.screenmachine.co.uk
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