I was very interested in Tom King’s article on old Southend cinemas. Having been born in Westcliff in 1922 and lived here all my life, I think I have visited them all!

The Mascot was on the map, but not mentioned. It stood on the site of Cooks Coaches. I remember the Kings Hall at the top of Hamlet Court Road. I remember going to all-night matinees at the Metropole.

Garons Cinema opposite Warrior Square was cosy and Ena Baga played the organ. Guy Hindell was the organist at the Odeon, that was a lovely theatre, as was the Ritz.

There was also a News Theatre and I seem to remember a Plaza.

Rita Smith
Highwood Close
Leigh