Fitting resting placefor Fletcher cinemafounder Freddie

Former diplomat and author Freddie Lees, who died in 2012, was a founder of the Fletcher Group, named after John Fletcher, a contemporary of Shakespeare who lived in Rye.

Hugh Kermode, from the Fletcher Group, said: “As he was the Founder of Fletcher in Rye CIC, we wanted to recognise his place at the centre of the Lion Street project.

“After discussions with his family, earlier this month there was an informal gathering in the undercroft of The Art Room - and some of Freddie’s ashes were placed amongst the newly strengthened foundations. Freddie continues to support the Arts in Rye.”

Plans have been approved for a new two screen cinema at Lion Street and work on the project is going well.

It will be operated by the Kino group, who already run a successful cinema at nearby Hawkhurst.

The project was made possible after the Fletcher Group joined forces with St Mary’s Church to acquire the former adult education centre from Hastings College.