Hucknall: The Arc Cinema's marketing manager named as runner-up in UK Cinema Heroes competition

The marketing manager of Hucknall's Arc Cinema has been named as one of two runners-up in a prestigious competition.

Mark Gallagher, who until recently was the manager of the cinema located on High Street before being promoted, was announced today as having finished joint second in The UK Cinema Heroes award.

Organised by the UK Cinema association in partnership with Searchlight Pictures, to mark the release of Sam Mendes' Empire of Light, the awards are aimed at recognising the contribution of cinema workers who go above and beyond to promote cinema in their community.

Rob Younger, owner of the Parkway in Barnsley and an industry veteran of over 40 years, has been declared the winner whilst Joyce Kane of ODEON Kilmarnock, along with Mark, was named as a runner-up.

In total, over 200 industry figures collectively received over 1,000 nominations, and these were eventually whittled down to a ten person shortlist by an expert panel.

Mr Gallagher has received widespread praise for his organisation of bespoke events to accompany the release of major films. This has included a casino themed evening for the release of Daniel Craig's final outing as James Bond in 'No Time to Die' and an opportunity to be photographed with a Batmobile to celebrate the release of Matt Reeves' The Batman.

There have also been anniversary events for classic films such as 'Short Circuit' and 'Groundhog Day'.

Speaking to Hucknall Nub News, about his success, Mark said: "To come runner up in a competition with over 1000 nominees is just phenomenal and to say I've only been doing this job for a few years is really something.

"I'm actually aware of Rob Younger, he's renowned in the industry. He's a legend so to come runner-up to him, I've got no problem with that whatsoever. Who knows where I'll be in 40 years' time? If I can be considered up there with Rob Younger I'll be very happy indeed.

"I couldn't do it without my team and the Arc Cinema head office team. Everyone's been so supportive and obviously the customers, our events and everything we do would be nothing without customers actually coming in and bothering to turn up so that's what it's all about. But to put Hucknall on some kind of map is amazing and I'll continue to do my best to do more of that."

For his prize, Mr Gallagher will be invited to attend a red carpet film premiere in London which is something he's dreamt about doing since he was a child. "I'm over the moon," he added.