WELL-KNOWN impressionist Alistair McGowan has teamed up with a Worcestershire MP to fight to re-open Evesham's Regal Cinema.

The Offenham born celebrity has joined Mid Worcestershire MP Peter Luff to support the 1930s art deco cinema, which is a Grade II listed building.

Today the cinema remains closed, paint is peeling and some windows are broken.

Councillors have warned the building could pose a danger to the public and there is concern it is hindering the regeneration of the town centre.

Two months ago the cinema's owner John Redpath was issued with a notice requiring him to improve its condition or face prosecution, but the work still hasn't taken place.

Mr McGowan and Mr Luff are now attempting to meet up with the cinema's owners to see what can be done to renovate the building.

Mr McGowan said: "The people of Evesham deserve their cinema back."

Mr Luff added: "It's great to see Alistair McGowan doing so much for his home area. I hope that, working together, we can support Wychavon and get things moving.

"Evesham people shouldn't have to travel long distances to see a film. Young and old - and everybody inbetween - would really benefit from a re-opened Regal.

"Alistair and I both hope the Regal will have a future as a cinema again soon."

Mr McGowan agreed to back the campaign during a meeting at the Commons with Jack Hegarty, Wychavon Council's managing director. He briefed them on the legal and planning issues concerning the cinema.