New film triggers security at Cineworld

FILM fans were forced by police to walk through knife arch when they
were searched for weapons at a Sheffield cinema.
They claim they were told the searches at Cineworld, on the
Centertainment complex, had been organised to coincide with the release
of the film Bronson - about a notorious violent criminal caged for life.
Police dispute the allegation, claiming the arch was used to search
people attending all the Centertainment businesses, not any one in
particular.
Cinema-goer Mark Grayson said: "Shocked by all of the security measures
I asked the ticket sales man what it was all about.
"When speaking to him, he said because of the new Bronson film they fear
people may be bringing weapons in, because a lot of people are
influenced by it."
He said visitors were asked to remove their bags and coats, jewellery,
belts and mobile phones before walking through the metal detectors.
A South Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said the searches were carried out
as part of a "series of public reassurance operations".
"The different venues have been chosen because they attract a large
number of people rather than there being any concerns with that
particular location," she said.
"These operations have involved working closely with partner agencies
who have supported the use of these arches to carry out checks of public
attending events.
"An operation was carried out at businesses within the Centertainment
complex in Sheffield, where arches were erected and members of the
public were randomly invited to pass through the arch."
Sergeant Mick Allott from the Attercliffe Safer Neighbourhood Team, who
ran the initiative, said: "We had over 250 people pass through the arch,
and I am very pleased to say nothing was found.
"Officers received many positive comments from members of the public who
stated they felt reassured and the operation was successful in that we
helped to show that such venues are safe places to attend."
A Cineworld spokesman said: "The local police rang up and asked of they
could test out some new equipment.
"Our cinema was chosen because of its high footfall, no other reason,
and nothing to do with the release of the film."

Story by Deborah Reilly