Storyhouse is calling on Chester cinemagoers to nominate the venue for a prestigious national cinema award.

The British Independent Film Awards (BIFA) Cinema of the Year Award is returning for a second year, celebrating independent cinemas that go beyond screening films and play an important role in their local communities.

Cinemas across the country were invited to enter the competition in July, with Chester's Storyhouse now in the running to be crowned this year's Cinema of the Year.

Storyhouse is Chester's only independent cinema and offers a year-round programme of hand-picked films alongside community film clubs, charity screenings, opportunities for young people, accessible screenings and special events.

Nicky Beaumont, head of cinema at Storyhouse, said: "Storyhouse is Chester's only independent cinema, offering a hand-picked, year-round film programme alongside a range of community film clubs, dedicated charity screenings, opportunities for young people, accessible screenings and special events.

"Together our community has helped shape Storyhouse Cinema, and we'd love your support."

The public vote closes on Monday 21 September. Residents can vote for Storyhouse through BIFA's Cinema of the Year vote.

BIFA directors Amy Gustin and Deena Wallace said the award recognises "the value of independent cinemas to people and the industry", while celebrating the teams behind the screens and the audiences who support them.

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Five nominees will be announced on November 3, alongside the rest of BIFA's 2026 award nominees. The overall winner will be revealed at the BIFA ceremony on Sunday 6 December, at London's Roundhouse.