Bideford's popular cinema

Ten years ago tomorrow the Strand Cinema, Bideford, was opened to the public. In these ten years it has become part and parcel of the community life. Hundreds and thousands of patrons have passed through the swing doors to enjoy an evening’s entertainment in the comfortable and modern surroundings.

On Christmas Night 1943, was the first of what was to become ‘Forces Nights’ with forty performers crowding the wings of the stage and an audience which sat on the floor when all the seats were filled.

Gazette article 20 July 1948