One of Britain’s oldest cinemas has been awarded more than £100,000 to help its recover and reopen when coronavirus restrictions ease.

East Finchley’s Phoenix Cinema received a £138,333 grant as part of the second round of the government’s £1.57 billion Cultural Recovery Fund.

A total of £6.5 million has been awarded by the British Film Institute to independent cinemas across the country in the latest round of support.

Dame Judi Dench, who is a patron at the Phoenix Cinema, said: “Local cinemas are a vital part of our cultural lives, enthralling us with films about lives that we recognise as well as offering us stories about other cultures from around the world.

“They are places where people come together for a shared experience and have inspired many to make their careers on screen. We need to make sure that generations today and in the future have the same opportunities to enjoy and take part in the communal big screen experience.”

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden added: “Our record breaking Culture Recovery Fund has already helped thousands of culture and heritage organisations across the country survive the biggest crisis they've ever faced.

“Now we’re staying by their side as they prepare to welcome the public back through their doors - helping our cultural gems plan for reopening and thrive in the better times ahead.”