A DORSET arts venue is launching a new cinema programme with one of the most celebrated actors of his generation, Brian Cox.

Brian Cox, star of countless plays, films, and television series - including Succession - is visiting Lyme Regis for an exclusive event on January 28.

During this event Brian will be interviewed on stage and his film Manhunter will be shown, with a chance for audience questions too.

Anyone living in Lyme Regis will be familiar with the sad tale of the Regent Cinema that burnt down in 2016. It was popular with both residents and tourists, so was reportedly "much missed".

After years of fundraising in the community, the Marine Theatre has announced it has now purchased cinema equipment.

The event will be raising funds for the Marine Theatre Young Filmmakers' Course starting this year.

Brian Cox has been acting for six decades, conquering the worlds of stage, television, and film.

He’s worked with the likes of John Gielgud, Laurence Olivier, Meryl Streep, Anthony Hopkins, Michael Mann and David Fincher.

In his 70s, Cox is now at the peak of his career, recently playing the fearsome patriarch Logan Roy in the hit TV show Succession.

Director Gabby Rabbitts said: '"We are now truly delighted to announce cinema as the new jewel in the Marine's crown. Over the last three years, we have been hard at work fundraising to offer our local community the very best cinema experience possible without having to travel out of town. Our efforts have now paid off.

"The audience experience has been at the very heart of our plans. We are so pleased to share a full cinema experience with a state-of-the-art DCP projector, new comfortable seating, beautiful golden British velvet curtains and an enhanced cinema sound system."

"We would like to send a heartfelt thanks to all the organisations that have made the Marine Cinema possible. Our particular thanks to Lyme Regis Town Council whose generous support of not only the cinema project, but continued support of the Marine throughout the years has provided the foundation for the Marine Theatre to build upon.Grateful thanks for the support of the Marine Cinema to Dorset Council, Backstage Trust, Garfield Weston and our sponsors Symondsbury Manor & The Seaside Boarding House," Gabby added. 

The event takes place on January 28 with tickets available frommarinetheatre.com, The Lyme Regis Bookshop, and Bridport Tourist Information Centre.

The film programme also starts in January.