Ritz Cinema, Thirsk blue plaque

This blue commemorative plaque records: Ritz Cinema this building was erected as a Mechanics Institute for workers education in 1849 by Sir William Payne-Gallwey of Thirkleby Hall. It was converted to a picture house in 1912 and remains one of the oldest surviving independent cinemas. It has been managed by a volunteer committee since 1996. Recorded plaque organisation: Thirsk Town Council.

The Ritz Cinema, originally built as a Mechanics Institute for workers' education in 1849 by Sir William Payne-Gallwey, was converted into a cinema in 1912 and now stands as one of the oldest surviving independent cinemas, managed by volunteers since 1996.