Iconic Doncaster artwork handed permanent display years after being recovered from a farmers field

But after the old landmark building was demolished in 2008, there were fears that the frieze which had adorned its frontage may never be seen again.

Now the work of art has been put on display in a prominent town centre location near the planned new town centre cinema at Waterdale, more than a decade after it was taken from its original spot.

Ron Curry MBE, who tracked the artwork down to a farmer’s field after becoming concerned that it been lost, is pleased to see it given a prominent home.

Ron, who set up the Doncaster cinema heritage group, called Let's go to the Pictures, and wrote a book using the same title, said he was proud that his group was named on a plaque about the frieze, due to its efforts to save the work and bring them back. Actor Brian Blessed is a patron of the group.

He said: “It looks very good. It’s a shame it has taken 12 years for it to be back on display properly, but they have put it back together properly.

“I would have liked to have seen it on a building façade.

"But I’m pleased that it is on display in the town centre – at one time it was looking like it would be completely lost. It think it could be a big draw for visitors, with next year being the 125th anniversary of British cinema.”

The old Gaumont held 2,000 in its auditorium, and hosted concerts by legendary performers including The Beatles and Buddy Holly. It is now a car park.

When it was tracked down by Mr Curry, the 33ft long frieze was in several pieces, but it was collected and put in a temporary place outside Doncaster Museum on Chequer Road. It was cleaned up by the Victoria Cross Trust.

It is the work of Newbury Abbot Trent, famous sculptor who was a member of the Royal Academy, and depicts the story of film, from its conception, the writing of the scenario, the building of the set and the shooting of the film.

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