Nick Park has cut the ribbon on Preston’s new city centre cinema.

The Arc Cinema had its VIP launch night on Thursday 20 February and opened its doors to the public the following day.

The multi-million pound eight-screen cinema is part of Animate, the new entertainment and leisure complex situated next to Preston Markets.

Read more: See everything you need to know about The Arc Cinema in Preston

The launch included a press conference with Wallace and Gromit creator Nick, plus Bafta award-winning director Merlin Crossingham, Director at Castle Fine Arts Foundry Chris Jones, Preston City Council leader Councillor Matthew Brown, Maple Grove Developments Director Andrew Dewhurst, and Director of The Arc Cinema Brian Gilligan.

Preston Concert Band played to enthralled audiences under the Victorian market canopy, just outside the cinema.

Read more: ‘I have to pinch myself’ – Nick Park’s emotional reaction to new Preston statue of Feathers McGraw

After the ribbon had been cut by Nick – with assistance from the Mayor of Preston, Councillor Phil Crowe – VIPs attended a special screening of the latest Wallace and Gromit instalment, Vengeance Most Fowl.

You can find out everything you need to know about The Arc Cinema, but here are some fabulous photos from the launch event as captured by Michael Porter Photography.

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