Taking dogs to the cinema 'means so much to us'

Justin Howard said the event also enabled his rescue dog Kuzya to interact with other dogs

A dog owner has said it "means so, so much to us" for people to be able to take their dogs with them to a new sold-out cinema event.

Cinema City in Norwich opened its doors to allow owners and pet pooches to watch the Amy Winehouse biopic, Back to Black.

Justin Howard said being able to take his rescue dog Kuzya made Norwich an even more "welcoming" place for dogs now.

"To see him interact with other dogs and how well behaved he is, considering the start in life he had, fills me with immense joy," he said.

The screening was a 32-ticket sell-out.

Other locations within the franchise have held similar events and Justin Holmes, general manager of the cinema said the reaction was "incredible".

"It sold out in 48 hours; it was incredible; we have had lots and lots of social media support for the screening, lots of disappointed doggies that weren't able to secure their tickets for the first one," he said.

'Accessible for all'

While the movie was not about dogs, Mr Holmes said he wanted the film choice to be broad enough and "accessible" for anyone to attend.

"I cannot begin to tell you how exciting it has been. I have worked in cinema for over 20 years and I love creating new experiences for new guests and making the cinema accessible for all," he said.

"We read the rules to the owners and the dogs, and they all sat politely listening on their blankets... we just feel like we're having our best day at work ever."

The film was screened at an earlier time to allow for a deep clean up process afterwards.

'He's part of our family'

Teresa and Malcolm Bushell from Diss said being able to take Teddy meant he was not left at home for hours on his own

Teresa and Malcolm Bushell said it was "amazing" to be able to bring their toy poodle Teddy, out with them.

"We love going to the cinema and we used to go all the time. Now that we've got Teddy he's part of our family and tends to go everywhere with us," Teresa said.

The family, from Diss, said it meant they were able to go out more often without worrying about Teddy being left at home on his own for hours.

After the success of Sunday's event, the cinema is planning for their next dog friendly screening in May.

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