Movie buff's 50 years of loyalty

Tony first started visiting the cinema as a teenager

A Black Country film fanatic who has been visiting the same cinema every weekend for 50 years has been rewarded for his loyalty.

Tony Lewis, 63, from Smethwick, has been given a free, lifelong pass by managers at the Odeon in New Street, Birmingham.

The movie buff first started visiting the cinema as a teenager and has kept up his weekend visits ever since.

Mr Lewis told the BBC's Midlands Today programme that things have changed since the 1950s.

'Amazing achievement'

"When I first came here there were lovely mirrors on the wall on each side and a chandelier, big as anything.

"And there was an organ on the stage, as well.

"The prices were about half a crown and went up to ten shillings."

Michael McLean, a spokesman for the Odeon, said Mr Lewis is as familiar in the cinema as the ushers and the popcorn.

"I've been here for five years and Tony has been become part of the fixtures and fittings.

"The staff know him and we love to see him come in every Saturday and it's that sort of devotion that we really wanted to reward.

He added: "I think it's an amazing achievement - every week for 50 years."