Demand to see a film about Thanet has been so great that two extra screenings have been organised.

Large queues formed at the first showing of the film, Thanet On Film, on Sunday (Nov 8) at the Palace Cinema, Broadstairs, and more than 200 people were unable to get in.

Film-maker Christine Tongue said she'd never seen such huge enthusiasm for a local film. "Even Hollywood blockbusters don't normally get this kind of demand," she said.

The film shows 80 years of Thanet's history, from the 1920s to the present day. The isle's resorts are shown at their peak, with crowded beaches and people thronging famous 'lost' attractions such as Dreamland and the Lido, and Ramsgate's Marina swimming pool and Model Village.

In the 1930s, Broadstairs' famous beach entertainer Uncle Mack is shown in action, and the Graff Zeppelin airship is seen flying over Thanet.

But there's also more controversial footage in the 1990s of the National Front marching in Margate and the film focuses, too, on the threat to the isle's green spaces from over-building.

Film-maker Christine Tongue said the huge turnout shows just how interested people are in their local area. "People are fascinated with looking at Thanet in the old days, but they're also extremely concerned about the present," she said.

The film was shown again on Sunday and will also be at the Palace Cinema, Harbour St, Broadstairs, on Sunday November 22 at 5pm. The screening will be followed by a discussion. To book a seat, ring the Palace Cinema on 01843 865726.

For full story, see this week's Thanet Extra, out on Wednesday Nov 18.