Cancelled Warwick film festival has fringe benefits

Organisers have put together a programme of films, themed events and food at pubs, hotels and restaurants, which was planned to complement the main festival in the town.

It starts next Thursday and runs through to August bank holiday Monday.

As reported in the Courier last week, organisers called off the free open-air films in Market Place and the Smith Street food market, blaming red tape at Warwick District Council.

But the council said it was not to blame, saying the Warwick Rocks organisers cancelled it when they could not meet within deadline statutory requirements for an event.

A Warwick Rocks spokesman said: “We were devastated to have to announce the cancellation of the free films in the square and Smith Street food market.

“The response from people and traders in supporting the event has been massive and we cannot thank them enough for all the positive comments.”

They added: “The food and film party atmosphere is still guaranteed in Warwick.”

The Thursday programme includes free film showings at the Wild Boar, Lakin Road: The LEGO Movie, at 3pm, and at 7.30pm The Goonies.

The following day there will be a Dirty Dancing and Sweet as Cakes theme night at the Warwick Arms Hotel, a Grease-themed film night and diner food at the Tilted Wig, and free viewings of Twilight at The Thomas Lloyd.

The Wild Boar will also have free showings Monsters University at 3pm and Jaws at 7.30pm.

The usual Saturday market will take place in Market Place, while the Warwick Ale Tour on Sunday has proved so popular tickets have sold out.

Sunday’s events also include an African-theme party at the Rose and Crown, and a Cuban-theme party at The Lazy Cow, both with food, film and music. Monday’s events include a gourmet burger day at the Rose and Crown.