Wells Film Centre has invested £18,500 in new projection technology, replacing the traditional lamps in all three of its screens with laser light sources.

The cinema expects the new equipment to improve picture quality while reducing electricity use, heat and maintenance costs.

Cinema proprietor Sally Cooper said: "I personally think the picture is brighter, crisper, clearer and much more consistent with the new laser projection. It's a real improvement to the experience for our customers.

"But the decision wasn't just about picture quality. As an independent cinema, we must look carefully at our running costs, and this upgrade gives us the opportunity to make significant savings while also reducing our environmental impact."

The cinema said the new technology is expected to reduce the projectors' electricity consumption by about two-thirds and produce less heat, reducing the need for cooling.

Xenon lamps traditionally need replacing after about 2,000 hours, at a cost of around £600 each. The new laser light sources are expected to last for 30,000 hours.

The investment was funded after a successful summer, with ticket sales and customer purchases from the cinema's sweet shop and bar helping support the business.

Wells Film Centre said the expected savings will help it maintain its standard £5 ticket price into 2027. Special events are excluded.

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The cinema will celebrate its 34th anniversary on 27 November.

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