OVER the opening weekend of the Second World War blockbuster, Dunkirk, the Regal Cinema in Evesham hosted 1940s dress-up events and raised more than £1,300 for the Royal British Legion.

The cinema displayed Royal British Legion collection boxes on their bars and held a raffle over the weekend.

A team of volunteers, headed up by Fiona George, Poppy Appeal organiser of the Legion's Evesham branch, also collected change at the special screenings as part of her Pedal to Paris 2017 fundraising appeal. Their combined fundraising efforts resulted in a total of £1,349 being raised.

Laura Clifford, the Regal's marketing manager, said: “We were delighted to help increase awareness of the fantastic work of the Royal British Legion and raise a brilliant sum of money for the charity. We would like to say a huge thank you to our lovely customers for supporting such a great cause!”

Fiona George, Poppy Appeal Organiser, said: “Often people are under the impression that we fundraise just once a year for the Royal British Legion during our poppy appeal, but it is really vital that we raise funds all year round. Thank you to The Regal for giving us this opportunity and to their customers for their kind donations.”

Jeff King, Evesham branch president, said: “It was a pleasure to represent the Legion at the Regal’s special screenings. We are so grateful for their fundraising support and we were also pleased to recruit some new members! We welcome enquiries from anybody wishing to become more involved in providing assistance to veterans; please visit us at Wallace House in Oat Street.”

Dunkirk is screening until Thursday, October 12, at the Regal. Full listings can be found at theregal.ac or by calling 01386 421007.