Special film preview boosts appeal (From Witney Gazette)

Special film preview boosts appeal

A SNEAK preview of new children's film Charlotte's Web, has been organised to raise money for the Oxford Children's Hospital.

Oxford's Vue Cinema is offering a chance to catch a first glimpse of the big screen adaptation of the popular children's book.

The event has been turned into a mini-fundraiser after the cinema donated 350 tickets which will now be sold in aid of the hospital.

Hazel Scott-Towers's three-year-old son Oscar has been in and out of hospital since birth due to problems with his heart, kidneys, ears and skull.

She contacted the cinema in Grenoble Road to ask if they would give the Children's Hospital some tickets for the showing.

Mrs Towers, 33, of Fullers Field, Great Milton, said: "I contacted the cinema direct to ask if they would donate some tickets. And I am pleased to say they were happy to help."

Alison Barnes, hospital communications manager, said: "We are grateful to Vue Cinemas for giving the hospital the opportunity to see the film. It is a fantastic way to help raise money for the charity and awareness of the campaign."

Juliet Rees, spokesman for Vue Cinemas, said: "This is a fantastic and fun way to raise money for schools and hospitals while seeing a great family movie ahead of its general release.

"This is just the latest phase of Vue Cinemas charity initiatives ensuring that quality entertainment goes hand-in-hand with community benefit."

The screening takes place on Sunday, February 4, at 10.30am.

Tickets are priced £5. To book, call 01865 743444. The film goes on general release on Friday, February 9.