Mick Jagger is trying to save a club where the Stones and Beatles played in the 60s.
Jagger has given his backing to a campaign to save a London venue.The Rolling Stones frontman is fighting to save the EMD cinema in Walthamstow, north-east London, from being turned into a place of worship for the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God.
The art deco, Grade II-listed building, which played host to the Stones, the Beatles, the Kinks and the Who over 40 years ago, was sold in 2003 to the UCKG.
It was denied permission to develop the building but campaigners said they expected another attempt to convert it.
The cinema was also frequently visited as a boy by master film-maker Alfred Hitchcock, who grew up in London.
Sir Mick said: "Cinemas and live venues like the Granada in Walthamstow where the Stones played in the early days, learning our craft on the way, are the lifeblood of our cultural history.
"They helped launched British popular music on to a world stage and should continue to function as places of entertainment and enjoyment.
"It's heartbreaking to hear about such a beautiful, important historical building and centre of entertainment being lost to the local community.
"I fully support the campaign to keep it open and provide film, music and the arts for generations to come."
The campaign has also attracted support from broadcaster Tony Robinson, actress and comedy writer Meera Syal and politician Tony Benn.
Music-News.com
