USE it or lose it, says Mark Cunningham, the man who has brought cinema back to Cinderford.
Bums on seats have been sorely missed since a letter – described by Mr Cunningham as "well wide of the mark" – suggested misbehaviour by a group of youngsters attending a film show at The Palace ruined the occasion for older people.
"In my view it was grossly exaggerated. Yes, some youngsters were in high spirits before the film started but they quickly settled down and I thought the evening went off very well," said Mr Cunningham.
But since the letter was published attendances have fallen off to such an extent that Mr Cunningham has become seriously concerned about the future.
"I appreciate the weather plays a part and that we are awaiting the arrival of some big films, but it is disconcerting to be stopped in the town by people who say they are sorry to hear we are being troubled by rowdy behaviour.
"It is really nothing like that and I am sorry people may have been given the wrong impression. It is a lovely, friendly cinema and I know many people view it as a valuable asset to the town and the Forest."
Mr Cunningham said that he needed to attract a weekly audience of approaching 500 to get towards break-even.
"I appreciate early summer is a difficult time of the year and things will improve as the big films come along, but the letter did nothing to help our cause. I would like to assure everyone that the Palace is no different from any other cinema or theatre and that youngsters are generally very well behaved," he said.