Residents and visitors are being invited to enjoy a series of free outdoor film screenings in Newcastle-under-Lyme town centre over the coming month, thanks to a partnership between Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council and Newcastle-under-Lyme BID.

The popular Cinema on the Stones programme will make use of the town centre's new digital screen on the High Street, creating an open-air cinema experience in the heart of the town. The screen was installed as part of the Borough Council's wider regeneration programme, funded through the Government's Future High Streets Fund, and is increasingly being used to host community events alongside commercial advertising.

Wide shot of the screen at Newcastle
Image: World News Bureau

The first screening takes place on Sunday 2 August, when families can watch Disney and Pixar's Inside Out from midday. The event coincides with the monthly Castle Pre-Loved Market, giving visitors the opportunity to browse stalls before settling down to enjoy the film.

A second cinema day follows on Sunday 16 August as part of the Castle Artisan Market. The programme will feature a double bill, beginning with Disney's The Little Mermaid at 10.30am before the adventure classic Hook is shown at 1pm. The themed event will also include children's activities, a pirate and mermaid fancy dress competition, and free popcorn and pick 'n' mix for attendees.

Organisers are encouraging people to bring picnic blankets or folding chairs, although visitors will also be able to enjoy food and drink from the town centre's cafés, restaurants, market traders and independent businesses while watching the films.

Charlotte Pearce, Manager of Newcastle-under-Lyme BID, said the outdoor cinema had become one of the town's most popular summer attractions.

She said the screenings had been scheduled alongside established markets to encourage more people to spend the day in the town centre, helping to support local businesses while providing free family entertainment.

The events form part of Newcastle-under-Lyme BID's wider programme of summer activities, which also includes festivals, creative workshops and family events aimed at increasing footfall and showcasing the town centre.

The initiative also demonstrates how the Borough Council's investment in the new digital screen is being used for community events as well as promotional campaigns, adding another attraction to Newcastle-under-Lyme's revitalised High Street.