Ticket sales up in fight to save Wolverhampton Light House

But the Black Country's only independent cinema is still on the look out for businesses to sponsor it and help plug a funding gap to safeguard its future.

Visitors numbers rose by more than a quarter in July compared with the same month last year.

Mrs Jeffs said the increase was partly due to the 'Mamma Mia affect' as the successful blockbuster had boosted all cinemas across the country.

But she said it also proved that people in the city value the cinema and want to ensure it stays open.

"The summer is usually a quiet time for cinemas but this is bucking the trend. We're not flogging a dead horse.

"We know we are offering what people want and I'm seeing new faces every day. We have never offered so much," added Mrs Jeffs.

The Light House, a registered charity based in the historic Chubb Buildings since 1991, features an independent cinema, cafe bar and galleries.

The venue shows independent and mainstream films, streams live theatre from the likes of the Royal Shakespeare Company and hosts community events

It has been struggling ever since it lost a council subsidy in 2015 – worth £73,000 a year.

Mrs Jeffs said the response to the campaign, launched last month, had so far been promising but more support was still needed.

"The campaign is going from strength to strength. Donations are coming in and key conversations with potential sponsors are taking place.

"The Light House is place where people can be entertained and relax. I don't think I should have to justify its existence,people deserve access to a resource like this. We need to keep this open for the city," added Mrs Jeffs.

As well as appealing to businesses to consider sponsorship or partnership opportunities, she said people could support the Light House by making donations, becoming a Friend of Light House or picking up a loyalty card.

"People can also help by spreading the word and sharing a posts on socia media. If someone is collecting a programme they could take two and pass one on to a friend who has never been," added Mrs Jeffs.

Donations can be made directly to the cinema by cash or cheque payable to Light House Media Centre, or online via localgiving.org/charity/lovelighthouse

Companies, individuals and organisations wanting to discuss sponsorship and partnership can call Ms Jeffs on 01902 716055 or email kelly@light-house.co.uk