BUTCHERS, hairdressers, clergymen and newsagents - these are just a few of the unsung heroes gathering hundreds of signatures for our campaign to save the York Odeon.

Their efforts have helped take the total raised to well past 6,000 - in fewer than three weeks.

Ged Bell, who runs a butcher's shop in Middlethorpe Grove, Dringhouses, with his son, Lee, has already collected hundreds of signatures from concerned customers.

"We've had a brilliant response," he said. "The Odeon is a major York landmark."

Sam Hankin, who runs Samantha's Hair Studio next door to Ged, said her customers were also passionate about preserving the Odeon.

"We've had a very good response to the campaign," she said. "A lot of our customers watch films there and have some great memories."

Ruth Boswell, who runs Arden News in Rougier Street, is one of many newsagents who have put our petition on display counter for customers to sign.

"We've already filled in our first batch of forms," she said. "People are worried about the expense of going out of town to watch a film."

Tom George, who runs T & JR George Newsagents, in Beckfield Lane, has collected about 200 signatures. A lot of our customers say it's easier to get to the Odeon than Clifton Moor."

Readers are continuing to write in to offer their support for their petition.

Pensioner Yvonne Collings, of St George's Place, said: "There must be many grandparents like myself who can only enjoy films with grandchildren whilst the cinema remains in Blossom Street."

If you would like to collect signatures in your street or business contact Matthew Woodcock or Mike Laycock for a petition form on 01904 567132 or email matthew.woodcock@ycp.co.uk

Updated: 09:32 Saturday, February 14, 2004