HAVING a baby with you in a cinema would normally attract steely stares from other movie goers but parents in Ipswich are about to get a reprieve.For all those parents who have resigned themselves to the fact they'll have to pay a babysitter or wait until films are released on DVD rather than see a recent release at the cinema, Ipswich Borough Council has come to their aid.

HAVING a baby with you in a cinema would normally attract steely stares from other movie goers but parents in Ipswich are about to get a reprieve.

For all those parents who have resigned themselves to the fact they'll have to pay a babysitter or wait until films are released on DVD rather than see a recent release at the cinema, Ipswich Borough Council has come to their aid.

The council is holding special screenings so that parents or carers of young babies have the chance to take their children to the cinema with them - without facing the wrath of other patrons.

Monthly screenings will be held at Ipswich Film Theatre exclusively for those with babies aged 18 months or younger.

Up to two adults will be admitted with each baby and tickets cost £3 per adult with babies getting in for free.

The screenings at the council-run Ipswich Film Theatre begin at 11am on Wednesday, November 22 with Tais-Tois, a French film staring Gerard Depardieu.

December's screening will be Starter For 10, a new British comedy about the quiz show University Challenge, at 11am on Wednesday, December 6.

Councillor Judy Terry, Ipswich Borough Council's spokeswoman for culture, arts and leisure, said: “We are pleased to be bringing in these special screenings as they enable mums to get out, meet friends and enjoy a film without all the pressure of finding child care.

“I hope they will be a big success.”

Tickets are available from the ticket office in the Customer Service Centre at Ipswich Town Hall, which can be contacted on 01473 433100.

WEBLINKS

www.ipswichfilmtheatre.co.uk

www.ipswich.gov.uk