Video and gallery: Curtain up on Walsall's new Light Cinema

Construction began on the multi-million pound Light Cinema at Walsall's Waterfront development back in December 2014, with movie goers now able to catch the latest blockbusters at the 1200-seat, eight-screen venue.

The cinema, which is the first in the country to boast the latest hi-tech screen, has also created 45 jobs for the borough.

Phil Dove, general manager for The Light, said: "All partners involved have been committed to support Light with securing interest from an excellent calibre of clients and we are really excited to open the cinema with the new team.

"The interest in jobs has been tremendous and has surpassed recruitment drives at our other sites. The mix of candidates has been impressive with a good balance between age, gender, ethnicity and skills."

The complex includes The Green Room – a café bar featuring stage lights and rustic furniture – for customers to relax with a drink before viewing a film.

Baby-friendly screenings will also be shown at the canal-side facility, including special screenings for autistic viewers and dementia sufferers.

The site will complement new developments at the Waterfront, including restaurants such as Pizza Express and Bella Italia.

Councillor Adrian Andrew, deputy leader for Walsall Council, said: "It is a beautiful venue and I am delighted to have played a major role in delivering Walsall's first town centre based cinema for more than two decades.

"I am sure that many people will be pleased to have a cinema on their doorstep. It is something we've been working on for years.

"This is about improving the nightlife economy.

"People want more things to do in the evening and at weekends and I'm happy we've been able to provide that.

"I'd like to thank The Light and the developer Kier for delivering the project. It's now up to people to use the facility and make it a success."