HOLLYWOOD celebrities are backing the campaign to save Blaenau Ffestiniog’s only cinema.

A couple of very famous faces have got behind the crowdfunder to save the indie picture house CellB.

Cellb, the former police station turned community centre in Blaenau Ffestiniog faces closure after an insurance claim to repair storm damage to the building was rejected.

Non-profit organisation Gwallgofiaid, headed by Rhys Roberts, has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise £10,000 to keep the centre open and has already amassed over £7,000 in just a few weeks.

Ruthin actor Rhys Ifans - who stars in Welsh cult classic Twin Town, Notting Hill and The Amazing Spider-Man - has posted a video appeal urging people to get behind the cause and donate to the fund.

Speaking directly to the camera, Ifans asks viewers to help save the “extraordinary” cinema.

He said: “A quick message to ask and to urge all of you to support in whatever way you can, the campaign to save Cellb cinema in Blaenau Ffestiniog.

“And to ensure that this extraordinary cinema run by the amazing Gwallgofiaid will be with us in Wales and Blaenau Ffestiniog for decades upon decades to come.”

Welsh Hollywood icon Michael Sheen has also got behind the campaign, taking to social media to encourage people to donate to the cause and help the centre stay open.

In a tweet, the actor, renowned for his portrayal as Tony Blair in The Queen, said: “The first cinema in over 40 years in Blaneau Ffestiniog, now run by a social enterprise needs our help to stay open.

“If you can, please donate £6, the cost of a child’s ticket and let’s keep films running for another 40 years.”

Following a storm in 2017, a burst pipe went undetected which insurers refuse to pay out for, meaning without the money the social enterprise may have to close its doors.

The £10,000 appeal was launched earlier this month.

For more information, or to donate, please visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/sinemablaenau

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