TYCOON Richard Branson today spoke about the "very special" multiplex cinema Virgin will build in Bolton.

The 15-screen complex at Watersmeeting Road, off Blackburn Road in the Tonge Valley will seat 3,500 people.

And Virgin claim that it will be the largest multiplex in the country.

Virgin boss Mr Branson said: "Virgin do not enter into new areas of business unless we can do it better than it has been done before."

"The acquisition of the Bolton site demonstrates Virgin Cinemas' serious commitment to build the country's largest, most exciting and advanced cinema complexes."

He added that the development would offer the people of Bolton "something very special indeed."

Virgin is introducing in its cinemas airline style ticket desks, and "The Premiere Screen" an upper class auditorium and lounge which offers guests a unique personal service including a coat check, private bar and top-quality food.

Virgin say that some of these facilities will be in the Bolton complex.

The deal is part of extensive expansion programme by Virgin who plan 18 new complexes across the country over the next two to three years. They already have one at Rochester, Kent.

David Facer, Marketing Director, added: "This deal is a real coup for Virgin Cinemas.

"Our aim is to give our customers the best, most innovative and most exciting cinema experience possible.

"We want a night out with Virgin Cinemas to offer excellent value for money and choice."

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