AN HISTORIC cinema that was closed for six months over asbestos fears has attracted a Hollywood star for its official reopening day.

The 123-year-old Market Hall Cinema in Brynmawr was issued a closure notice by Blaenau Gwent Council last November during works to build a second screen.

This referred to a potentially asbestos-contaminated roof space over the former town library, with the cinema facing an uncertain future including the prospect of closing for good.

Following an online fundraising campaign and huge support from the community to sustain running costs during the closure, the cinema opened in May with the all-clear from council inspectors.

Now, the cinema has attracted the support of Hollywood star Michael Sheen, who will visit the cinema next week for a unique event.

The Newport-born actor will visit on Wednesday, July 12 to watch a secret movie of his choice and will officially re-open the cinema during his visit.

A statement, posted on the Market Hall Cinema’s Facebook page said: “We can't think of anyone better to cut the ribbon”.

For more information and updates, search the Market Hall Cinema on Facebook.