A CAMPAIGN to save Alton’s cinema is gathering pace after 1,255 people signed an online petition, launched only last Wednesday, to keep the venue open.

Now a survey to establish the demand for a cinema - and see if there is support for it to be transformed into an entertainments hub for the town - is due to go out this week.

Campaigners hope the survey will be a stepping stone to help secure funds for a feasibility study into proposals for its regeneration, which would in turn open the way for grant applications to be made.

Petition organiser Kat Genioui said: "The petition was set up to prove local support for the cinema. We’ve been really pleased by the response. The survey is a first attempt at gathering insights how people would use a refurbished cinema, if it could be saved from closure.

"While there has been a lot of doubt about the financial viability of the cinema, we think with a bit of imagination and some refurbishment - including to make it more accessible - it could be commercial. We think it has a lot of potential and are hoping to see if our vision is shared by others."

The bid to save the cinema in Normandy Street comes after the Herald revealed it faced closure by next September when current owner Raj Jeyasingam intends to give up running it after 26 years at the helm.

People who have signed the petition have described the cinema as a "little gem" and "unique". Others have commented how Alton is growing in population yet has few entertainment facilities. Those who signed will receive an online notification when the survey is available.