The highly-anticipated Downton Abbey sequel has already proved a hit in Christchurch as the Regent Centre extend screening dates due to popular demand.

The Regent welcomed two packed houses of excited Downton fans on their opening day, which marked the first of 58 screenings scheduled from Friday April 29 - Thursday May 19. However, due to phenomenal demand, the cinema has now extended its screenings until Wednesday, May 25.

In 2019, the Regent Centre won the award for No.1 cinema in the UK for the sales of the first Downton Abbey film which became the bestselling film in 90 years.

All of the fan favourites will be returning including Dame Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville  and Jim Carter, along with new additions Hugh Dancy, Laura Haddock, Nathalie Baye and Dominic West.

The sequel was initially scheduled for UK release in December 2021 before being delayed to March 18 2022 as a result of the pandemic.

In support of Deaf Awareness Week this week (May 2-8), the Regent is showing a subtitled version on Sunday May 8 at 5pm. There will be an additional subtitled screening on Wednesday May 18 at 1.50pm.

For film times and tickets, visit www.regentcentre.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01202 499199.