A DISCOVERY in Colne could mean the history of the British film industry being re-written as celebrations begin to mark its centenary.

Reference books around the country say the first purpose-built Cinema opened in 1907 - but historian Bert Hindle has come up with documentary proof that people in Colne were watching movies as early as in 1905.

Local entrepreneur Joshua Duckworth is credited with opening the Central Hall to show films.

Until recently, it was believed that the hall was opened in 1907, but old accounts made out by Mr Duckworth now reveal that a cinematograph was used to project motion pictures two years earlier.

Said Mr Hindle: "The Cinema 100 club want to erect a plaque to mark the fact that the Central Hall was the first purpose-built cinema in Britain, and they want to make sure the date is right."

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