The cinema’s closure has been confirmed to the BBC, but no other details have been revealed.

Organisers of the city’s Flatpack Festival, which has used the venue for 18 years, say they have been told it is not available this year, because the building’s lease is coming to an end.

Tributes to the much-loved building have poured in across social media platforms.

David Baldwin posted on X: “I have complex feelings about that building related to my time there (and its former owner), but it is a significant loss to the city.”

Dr Helen Ingram said: “It was extremely popular and hosted the most *amazing* events. I’m absolutely gutted.”