A Sandwich film company has thanked all the extras who helped in making a promotional video for the Empire Cinema.

Gemstone Films appealed for people to take part in the shoot on Friday and were thrilled when around 20 people came to star in the video.

Extras were filmed sitting in the auditorium, as well as buying tickets, sweets and drinks.

The crew also interviewed proprietor Linton Culver and long-standing staff member Jo Stockdale.

Alex Potter, 24, of King’s Avenue, Sandwich Bay, has set-up the film company with his sister Lucie, 17.

He said: “I moved back to Sandwich from London and set up the company. We’re getting a lot of experience and contacts. We’re still young, with just a couple of clients so far. The Empire will be our debut.”

Mr Potter explained it is a great venue to film, as well as inside shots they also captured shots of the impressive 1920s building.

He said: “Linton said customers love the art deco, traditional architecture and said that it has much more of a family feel. People are treated as individuals rather than when you go to a multiplex.”

The promotional video will feature on the Empire’s website, Facebook and on Youtube in August and Mr Potter hopes it will bring more customers in.

Another session is needed to capture the impressive neon lights of the cinema at night and a second day of filming will shoot the classic presentations in the lounge.

This will take place towards the end of the month and more details will be released soon.

Mr Culver said he thought the shoot was a great success. He said: “It was a very enjoyable experience with the professional team from Gemstone.

“I would like to thank Alex and his crew, the staff and all the extras who came along to support the event. It was an excellent public relations exercise and enjoyed by all.”

The film is being made in association with Filmbaker Productions, founded by Mr Potter’s friend George Baker.

In a statement on their Facebook page, Gemstone Films said: “We had a fantastic day today filming with the kind people at the Empire Cinema, Sandwich.

“Many thanks for their understanding and hospitality and a sincere thank you to all of you who came along to star in the promo film as extras – it was greatly appreciated.”

For more information visit www.gemstonefilms.org