More than a dozen film-goers were forced to flee an Essex cinema when a fire interrupted their viewing.

The fire caught hold as customers of the Odeon in Chelmsford were watching the Green Mile, starring Tom Hanks, last Tuesday (April 4).

One film-goer said the screen suddenly went blank and he and the rest of the audience were ushered towards a fire exit by staff.

When outside, they turned a corner and walked into a dense cloud of thick smoke.

Also evacuated were diners from a next-door restaurant.

Fire prevention officers have visited the building, which has suffered extensive damage and has only been open since December. Loss adjusters Property and Casualty Services estimate the damage at around £800,000.


The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.

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