People power may win the day after a Southend cinema agreed to rethink a decision over showing a film about the life of Jesus.

Churchgoer Paul Fox was among those disappointed to hear The Miracle Maker film, a new animated production, might not be coming to the Odeon in Southend.

Mr Fox, 63, of Woodfield Road, Leigh, a member of the Westcliff United Reform Church, wrote - along with many others - to protest against the Odeon's decision.

He said: "This is, I am told, a well-made film with good reviews and I am sure many people would like to see it, including members of my church.

"There are over 70 churches and Christian fellowships in Southend, some very well attended, and it has been estimated there must be 10,000 who attend church locally on a regular basis.

"I am sure there are lots of people who would like to see it and take their children along to see it as well."

He added the film was being screened in Basildon, which has far fewer churches than Southend.

However, Vicky Holden, marketing co-ordinator for Southend Odeon, said the film had not yet been shown because of the pressure on the number of screens - but moves were under way to bring it to Southend.

Miss Holden said: "At the end of the day it boils down to the number of screens we have and the number of seats.

"It has got nothing to do with the type of film - it is just the space. If we had 12 screens, there would be no problem."

She added that after the influx of letters, inquiries were being put to the booking department to see if the film could be brought to the cinema on general release or for a special screening.

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