A Bradford city centre cinema is to re-open - thanks to staff giving up their time for free.

Managers, projectionists and box office staff are working without pay at the Priestley Centre for the Arts in Chapel Street, Little Germany, so a special six-week programme of films can be screened.

The announcement comes three months after the cinema - part of the former Bradford Playhouse - was shut down because of falling audiences and the withdrawal of Bradford Council funding.

House manager Darren Potter said a small, dedicated team had been working hard during the summer to get films back on, but added more support was needed.

He said: "We think the cinema is an important part of this venue and needs to be here. There's a great atmosphere and support from all the members and staff and I think that's unique to Bradford.

"Bradford is supposedly the city of film. But we are going to lose it unless Bradford Council is more pro-active amongst organisations like us."

Highlights of the programme include a two-week showing of the highly rated Billy Elliot and five new films for the 14th Leeds International Film Festival - the first time the centre has taken part. Cheaper £1.50 tickets are also being offered to students.

Organisers hope success will lead to further screenings in the new year and eventually a full-time programme.

A council spokesman today welcomed the news of the re-opening.

He said: "Bradford Council actively supports film and cinema in various ways including the work of Bradford Film Office and joint initiatives with the National Museum of Photography, Film and Television."

The programme starts on Friday with the showing of Nick Hornby's High Fidelity and Time Code starring Holly Hunter and Julian Sands. For more information call (01274) 820666.