READERS have voiced their support of Paul Donaldson, who has been tirelessly dedicating his time to ensure the members of his popular Carlisle Cult Cinema Club.

Prior to lockdown, the club would meet for screenings at Harraby Theatre.

“They are absolutely amazing down there," says Paul. “The people who run it have been so supportive over the years.”

Like many groups over the past 12 months, however, the inability to meet up meant that Paul had to find new ways of keeping people engaged, and during the pandemic he has continued to work to keep the community alive.

“We’re celebrating our four-year anniversary as a club this month. I’m looking forward to screening again when it’s safe to do and I’m also relaunching a podcast series soon to hopefully engage with even more people.

“For the podcasts lined up, I have about 20 actors, directors, special effects people and producers to speak about the cult movies they’ve worked on.

“I’m a big cult cinema fan, obviously, and so the idea to start the group came out of me wanting to show both the cinematic trash and treasures out there. Some films have never been back on the cinema so introducing them to people or helping people revisit a film hey may have enjoyed in the past is a real passion for me.

“People have really enjoyed it.”

Two years ago, however, a rare disorder meant that Paul’s life took a very challenging turn which brought home to him the impact feeling part of a community can have.

“In January 2019, I became paralysed from the neck down. I’ve fought back after months in hospital and I’m learning to walk again.”

The club continued when Paul was in hospital, showing films such as as the original Star Wars for charity.”

Here’s what you the readers thought of Paul:

Peter Blakemore posted: “The guy's a true hero – make him mayor.”

Dusty Heslop said: “Well done Paul, lad.”

Kerry Donaldson posted: “Proud of you Paul.”

Julie Cork posted: “Well done Paul.”