A FRIEND recently invited me to a film screening in the Pier Theatre put on by Arts Bournemouth.

As we approached the theatre I was dismayed by the dilapidated appearance of the theatre and wondered what horrors were in store.

The exterior was in bad need of maintenance, the signage was decrepit, in one place only the ‘R’ of ‘Bar’ remained. In fact the building looked derelict, with the main front doors being locked, all the window obliterated with posters, and the entrance being through a scruffy side door.

But once inside, a different story completely. Friendly staff and a jewel of a theatre also apparently equipped as a cinema, comfortable and well maintained, albeit a trifle dated.

Having been there once I would certainly now go again, but I wonder how many people, like me, would take one look at its exterior appearance and never consider it as an entertainment venue worth visiting.

First impressions are vitally important. With all the attention currently focussed on the hideous Imax building, please Bournemouth do not overlook the Pier Theatre and do something to upgrade the exterior before falling attendances seal its eventual fate.

RJ MORTON, Tadley, Hants