WHEN the closing credits rolled for the last time at Durham's only cinema, The Robins, film fans were at a loss.

The North Road venue's demise two years ago, left car-less youngsters and students in particular, facing a long journey to multiplex cinemas on Tyneside, if they wanted to see the latest all-action Hollywood blockbuster.

But enthusiasts of the less commercial, art and foreign films were also left without anywhere to indulge their passion.

The independently-run Robins, which is now the Walkabout Australian theme bar, used to hold weekly screenings of independent films.

The cinema's demise spurred the foundation of the Clayport Film Club, which meets in the library, a building that forms a key part of the Millennium City development and also includes the Gala Theatre, which has filled the gap following the Robins' closure and screens the latest cinema hits.

So successful has the club been since it was set up in March, that it is now thought to be one of the country's most rapidly expanding film societies.

"The deep desire for good quality cinema in Durham was obvious and this is a major reason for why in only nine months the Clayport Film Club has been an unbelievable success," said John Coburn, who founded the club with fellow library worker Geoff Pratt.

"Screening eclectic world cinema - and quite often good English language titles - in the library on a fortnightly basis for an affordable price (we are a non-profit society), we've steadily amassed a devoted and enthusiastic following.

"Averaging around 65 people each showing with a membership of just under 200 we're one of the fastest growing film societies in the UK.

"Aside from the impressive audience numbers, the film club has been particularly successful in bringing together and establishing a strong community of film enthusiasts. Our evenings are a relaxed and enjoyable affair for everyone within our diverse membership and this added atmosphere makes us distinct from any cinema."

Mr Coburn said the library was a good venue for showing films and there were plans to upgrade the sound system and install a hanging screen.

"The Iranian films we have shown have shown received mixed responses. Not all the films we show go down well but people are pleased that we show them. It is not all light-hearted comedy.

"Our plans for the group encompass more than just these fortnightly screenings.

"Plans include film workshops, special talks, hosting touring film festivals, evenings devoted to local film-makers (we have members who are also a members of local film-making groups), sponsoring film projects amongst local schools.

"As employees of Durham County Council, it is within mine and Geoff's remit to develop cultural activity in the area.

"All of these initiatives are enveloped within that goal. Yet although we are strongly affiliated with Durham County Council, Clayport Film Club belongs to its members. They affect the programming, the organisation and structure of the group.

More active members now have a place on our committee, while other keen members are happy to offer their help when we require it - whether that be tidying away chairs after a performance or attending one of our meetings with a local arts council. Such is their passion for film and Clayport Film Club, it's only right that it should belong to them."

Six months membership costs £5 and includes one free screening. After that, members pay £3 per film. Concessions are available. Members must be at least 16. The next meeting is on Thursday at 7.45. For details, call 0191-386 4003.