I WAS employed at the Regal as assistant projectionist from October 2, 1944, until December 12, 1947, when I left to join the Merchant Navy, so was very sad to read it had finally closed its doors. I know the Godfrey family persevered with the theatre for a number of years when attendances were uneconomical and I am sure their loyalty to Northwich audiences is very much appreciated.

I have very fond memories of my time at the Regal and the staff, including manager Reg Walker, projectionist Andy McDonough, assistant projectionist John Winkle, commissionaire Wilf Moran, the usherettes, including Kathleen Bailey, the Flatley girls - Phyllis, Gwen, Dot and Joan - and Alice Faulkner, whose mother Mrs Davies was also one of the cleaners. Most of the ones mentioned I am afraid have passed on.

John Winkle and I were evacuated on the night of the flood when a dinghy came through the front doors and up to the steps of the inner foyer near Reg Walker's office. We rowed out, across the road and alongside the theatre (since demolished) that was being used as wartime storage and came ashore on the road near the fire station.

I am now retired in Australia after working for oil exploration companies in the Middle and Far East and 26 years in Papua New Guinea. I do not get back to England very often these days unfortunately.

I received an email from William Godfrey in July 2004, after I contacted him looking for a contact for John Winkle, so I could look him up on my planned visit to England the following month. William had no information on John but very kindly offered to arrange a visit to the Regal for me. Unfortunately I managed to break my leg so the trip was cancelled, and obviously that visit to the Regal will not be possible now.

I wish the Godfrey family all the best for their future endeavours and hope they continue their association with Northwich.

ALBERT H CROSS Australia