Fans of Tyneside Cinema have been left deeply saddened by news that its much-loved Coffee Rooms is to shut down this coming weekend.
News of the closure was announced on the Newcastle cinema's Facebook page on Wednesday, with just a few days' notice of the plans. Shocked customers were told that the cafe will close from Sunday "for the foreseeable future" because it is no longer viable, although the space will be used to host occasional events.
Rising fuel bills and food costs due to the cost of living crisis are blamed for the loss of the historic Tyneside Coffee Rooms which opened in 1938 and, like the independent cinema itself, is seen as a city institution. Many people have been sharing their sadness at the announcement - and their fond memories of dining there over the years.
