THE Evening Press campaign to save the York Odeon has been backed by MPs at Westminster - including former cabinet minister Frank Dobson.

York MP Hugh Bayley and Selby MP John Grogan have tabled an Early Day Motion, which will appear regularly on the official House of Commons Order Paper - ensuring every MP learns of the closure threat.

It warns the loss of the listed 1930s cinema, famed for its art deco architecture, would be "a serious loss to the city's residents and visitors and to York's culture, economy and tourism industry".

"The picture house has a special place in cinema history and holds many

precious memories for the people of York, who would be devastated to see it close," the motion adds.

Highlighting the massive response to our petition, it concludes by

calling for Odeon Cinemas "to restore York's last traditional city centre picture house to its former glory and save it from closure".

Mr Dobson, who grew up in York, signed because of his fond memories of visiting the cinema.

Tory MP Michael Jack, who was also born in Yorkshire, backed the motion after recalling his own visits to the Odeon.

Other signatories include Grimsby MP Austin Mitchell, a former

presenter on Yorkshire TV, and Labour MP Tom Clarke, who was

assistant director of the Scottish Film Council.

Mr Bayley said: "I have fond memories of the Odeon from 30 years ago when I was a student in York.

"Odeon Cinemas really must think again. With British film going through a huge revival, it would be unforgivable if the York Odeon was to close."

More than 5,000 people have signed the petition, which was launched after the cinema's owners said they were assessing its viability.

Updated: 10:37 Wednesday, February 11, 2004