Villagers in Hassocks are being given the chance to see top feature films on their own doorstep for the first time in decades.

Juliette Binoche will be the main attraction at the opening night of a new cinema.

The Hollywood actress will be on the big screen rather than a guest but it is hoped she will attract film lovers to the viewing.

Residents will see their village hall transformed into a cinema for a showing of the film Chocolat to launch the project.

Sherrian Guest, who has helped organise the event, said: "Villagers were sent questionnaires and asked what they would like in the village.

"We wanted something for all ages. Many youngsters asked for a skate park or cafe but a cinema was popular with both the younger and older generation."

About 1,000 people completed and returned the village action plan questionnaires, with 700 saying they would like a cinema.

The first film, to be shown on January 3, will be part of a themed night.

Audience members will get a piece of chocolate when they enter the cinema and hot chocolate will be on sale.

If the evening, sponsored by the Hassocks Regeneration Group, is a success, the village's Adastra Hall may host monthly screenings.

At present, villagers have to travel to Burgess Hill or Brighton to see the latest releases.

Project leaders are already planning a second cinema night for February 28, with the audience at Chocolat being given the chance to choose which film will be shown.

Mrs Guest said it was hoped at least 100 people would turn up for the opening night.

The screening will be a far cry from cinema's heyday before the village's cinema, called The Orion, was demolished in the Sixties to make way for the flats and shopping area in Orion Parade.

Mrs Guest said: "We really hope it is a success, which will bring villagers together and enable them to have fun within walking distance of their homes."

Tickets cost £3.50, or £3 for pensioners, and doors open at 7pm. For more information, call 01273 842081.