The Viking Cinema Demolition (Largs, North Ayrshire) 1983.

The Viking Cinema was located in Largs, North Ayrshire. It was built by Bridgend Picture House Company and was designed by James Houston. (1893-1966) of Kilbirnie. The Art Deco cinema was officially opened by the 8th Earl of Glasgow in 1939. The building had buttressed walls and battlements. A huge portcullis could be lowered when the cinema was closed.
In 1945 the cinema was brought by Mr George Palmer whose firm Associated GP Cinemas, eventually owned a chain of some 30 picture houses. Mr Palmer had the greatest affection for the Viking Cinema which he described as 'the jewel in the crown' and when any new cinematic improvements came along, such as the widescreen or a new sound system, The Viking would get it installed first amongst his cinemas. The Viking Cinema had 1,292 seats.
The Viking ship at the front entrance of the Art Deco cinema was built by a Gourock firm of yacht builders, James Adam & Son. It was the prow of King Haakon's galley with its gilded dragon's head. It was a delightful feature and paid homage to the Battle of Largs in 1263. It stood about 12 feet high with a beam of 10 feet and was erected in a pool of water.
The Viking Cinema closed in 1973 and subsequently became a bottling plant and distribution centre. This much loved landmark was later demolished in 1983.
Canmore ID 206994 Largs, Irvine Road, Viviking Cinema. canmore.org.uk...

[@RaibeartMacAoidh]

I took these snaps on the first day of the demolition of The Viking Cinema in 1983. They had been mislaid for many years, but recently I found them in my attic. I was pleased to be reunited with them.

[@rowanrollo9226]

I know you are in the Largs People Facebook group but are you a member of the Largs History Group on Facebook? This should be posted on there.

[@RaibeartMacAoidh]

@@rowanrollo9226 Thanks for your comment. I have already posted it on Largs History Group on 10th November.

[@andyhughes5885]

In all the history you`ve written about this cinema, you for got to say where the cinema was located.

[@RaibeartMacAoidh]

Thanks for pointing out my omission. I have edited it to give the location.