A historic cinema in Birmingham city centre is preparing to open under new ownership next month.
The Electric - said to be the UK's oldest working cinema - closed in March due to the coronavirus pandemic.
But now the 112-year-old Station Street cinema is being saved by Kevin Markwick who has pledged to reopen the venue before Christmas.
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In a statement sent to BirminghamLive, Mr Markwick - who already runs the 104-year-old Picture House Cinema, in Uckfield, East Sussex - said: "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to operate a cinema that is known around the world.
"I have visited The Electric many times and it has always been close to my heart, as it is to so many people across the city and UK. I am thrilled to now get the cinema back open in time for Christmas....I look forward to reopening this important cultural institution for the people of Birmingham and the UK."
Tom Lawes, who has owned The Electric since buying it at auction in 2004, confirmed that the cinema would keep its name but added that he would not be involved with the venue once it's reopened.
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Tom said: "Kevin is definitely the best man for job as unlike me cinema exhibition is his full-time career.
"He plans to open in time for the cinema's busy Christmas programme, with a mix of new releases, classic Christmas movies, special events, themed cocktails and treats.
"After what has been an incredible 17 years at the helm of this beautiful, much-loved building, I am delighted that someone as well-respected as Kevin is taking on stewardship of The Electric.
"It's a bittersweet moment for me but time now to focus on my other career as a film director and screenwriter."
