THE man who brought the "big screen" to film buffs in North East Lincolnshire has finally been awarded his MBE.
Gerald Parkes, 68, the founder of Parkway Cinema in Louth and Cleethorpes, was presented his prestigious award by Tony Worth, Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire.
Unfortunately Gerald is currently unwell but is happy to let people know he is receiving care and treatment at St Andrew's Hospice in Grimsby.
This is where his MBE was handed over, in front of his wife and sons who had kept the date of the presentation from him as a surprise.
Gerald said: "I was deeply moved by the whole event and was not expecting any of it.
"I found out about the MBE when my name was on this year's New Year's Honours List.
"The Queen was honouring me for my long service to the cinema industry."
Gerald first began working in the industry in 1960 as a rewind boy at Wakefield's ABC Regal.
He began to change our cinema experience in 1996 when he opened the Playhouse in Louth.
But his passion continued and he went on to build the Parkway Cinema multiplex cinema in Cleethorpes in 2004.
"I have been very fortunate as I have worked all my life in a job that I love", he said.
"I feel honoured to have received such an award. Despite me being in the hospice receiving respite, my family pulled out all the stops to make this presentation a wonderful occasion."
Parkway Entertainment is one of the most successful independent cinema operations in the country, with cinemas in Louth, Barnsley and Cleethorpes, and plans in place to develop a new multiplex in Beverley.
The Parkway in Cleethorpes was also named Best New UK Cinema in 2011.
Gerald said: "In a market dominated by very large multinational cinema operators, establishing a modern, thriving cinema business is no mean feat.
"This recognition of a lifetime of hard work is very gratefully received and we look forward to a bright future for Parkway Entertainment."
Tony Worth said: "It was a pleasure in rewarding the efforts of this family-owned business, particularly as it brings cinema closer to local communities that might not otherwise be served."
Scott Marshall, of Parkway Cinema, said: "Gerald has such a passion for the cinema industry and quite often attends meetings all around the country to ensure that his views are heard.
"He always says 'as soon as a customer walks through the door, our aim is to offer the very best experience'. We are all very proud of him and his MBE award, he truly deserves it."
