Leigh Film Society

Founded in 2013, the society was set up by a small and loyal following with the aim of fighting against social isolation, creating opportunities for young people and supporting community cohesion through the power of film.

10 years on, the team has grown to a committed cohort of around 20 volunteers who work to make socially inclusive cinema accessible to all. They provide valuable volunteering opportunities for local film enthusiasts and for young people who want to build a career in the competitive film industry.

The team at the Leigh Film Society are committed to delivering a professional service for seasoned film fans and the entire community, screening quality films across a range of genres from foreign language, art house and classics. The society has also built its own cinema, Leigh Film Factory within Spinners Mill, a Grade II listed building constructed entirely by volunteers using recycled materials. Opened in September 2022, this iconic venue now plays host to the annual Wigan and Leigh Film Festival, showcasing independent short films from across the world.

The society’s Afternoon Classic Cinema Club is aimed at people who are socially isolated, those with dementia and with physical and mental disabilities. In June 2023, the group teamed up with the Jo Cox Foundation in support of the ‘Great Get Together’, an event to unite communities and reduce loneliness. Through the ‘Great Watch Together’ event, the organisation hosted a singalong screening of Mamma Mia for 80 people.