WATCH: Cinema manager reveals best part about his role, as national operator heralds start of new episode
Last updated 13th May 2025
The manager of the Pavilion Cinema in Galashiels has revealed the best bit about his job, as he prepares to hand over the keys of the local attraction to a national operator.
Having welcomed over three million customers through their doors in Market Street over the last three decades, Andrew Poole told Greatest Hits Radio it's been an "epic" shift.
"I think there are going to be a few tears, to be honest," he said.
"It's probably going to feel similar to the night we closed due to Covid - we were forced to close, we had no choice but to close."
But he added: "I don't think the end of the road for us is going to be as heart-wrenching, because we'll be left with a sense of positivity that the cinema is continuing, and there's a fresh company - a bigger company - coming in to take it over."
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During their time in charge more than £750,000 has been invested in the local landmark - with the conversion to digital in 2011, replacing all of their seats in 2016 and upgrading their sound system in 2020 - when the cinema celebrated its centenary.
And, with staff being transferred over to the new company, its four screens are set to continue entertaining movie-goers for many years to come.
Geoff Greaves, Managing Director of Merlin Cinemas, said: “We look forward to continuing the fantastic work done by the Poole family in offering a wide selection of current films and providing a warm welcome to all the cinema’s customers.
"This much-loved venue has a rich history and a loyal audience, and we are excited to build on that legacy.
"The cinema will remain open during the period of Merlin taking over and we look forward to a smooth transition.”
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