Bramley Baths, in Leeds hosted their first swim along cinema event as part of a new social enterprise that combines fun, art and exercise.
The pool, which has been community run since January 2013, hosted a temporary cinema on March 23 as part of their open day activities.
Viewers had the choice of Jaws (12A) or Finding Nemo (U) and were able to enjoy proceedings while they swam or from the upper balcony.
Photography by Lizzie Coombes.
The idea was created as part of the I Love West Leeds Festival who runs community events around Leeds. The Baths are in partnership with them and in the past have had two sell out events in association including an open water orchestra and an underwater art exhibition.
Jane Earnshaw, Festival Director of I Love West Leeds Festival created the idea behind the cinema: “We love producing events in unorthodox spaces & taking events right to people’s doorsteps here in West Leeds.”
Photography by Lizzie Coombes.
The event was supported by Community First, a national funding scheme to benefit deprived communities in the UK, who helped with funding which meant they could sell tickets at affordable prices, as they are a not-for-profit community leisure centre they wanted to ensure it was accessible to all.
Danny Whiteley, Manager of Bramley Baths said: “I love West Leeds Festival; they have consistently proved that with a bit of imagination, places like Bramley Baths can be used for all sorts of superb events. It was a great way to celebrate our third month as a new social enterprise.”
Both cinema showings saw a total of around 160 people, who were welcomed by a red carpet as well as ushers in costume.
Photography by Lizzie Coombes.
Fran Graham, Communications Volunteer said: “Despite the snow we had a brilliant turnout. Several people walked there and back from Armley they were so determined to see it.”
Customers were equally as pleased and enjoyed the atmospheric decorations including two 8 ft replica lighthouses for the showing of Jaws.
Photography by Lizzie Coombes
Shaun Chatterton said: “My favourite film just got scarier during one really frightening scene someone swam under my legs….it was terrifying – and brilliant!”
This is the first of two swim along events which have been planned for 2013 with I Love West Leeds Festivals. Dates and times are still to be confirmed for the next event.
To keep up to date with future events keep checking www.bramleybaths.com and www.ilovewestleeds.co.uk
Diving In 