The John Welch Collection of Cinema Posters

A fascinating collection of some 400 original Cinema Posters will be coming up for auction this month at Plymouth Auction Rooms. The posters represent films that were shown at The Regal Cinema in Minehead from the late 1970’s, and include many 1980’s and 1990’s classics.

John Welch acquired the property in the 1970’s, but before that The Regal (built in 1934) was a 1,600 seat theatre and cinema. Over the years many of the promotional film quad posters were neatly folded and packed away. Following John’s retirement and his transfer of The Regal to Minehead Amateur Theatrical Association in 1994 the family held onto the collection, which they have now decided to put to auction. The people of Minehead may recall John Welch, a well-known character who was involved in every aspect of cinematography from managing the auditorium to presenting the films. The Regal is now a live theatre, and in 2021 the building was generously transferred to the MATA and secured the cinema and theatre for the Minehead town community.

The collection of posters, which are to be sold mainly as single lots, include many iconic films covering comedy, thrillers, and classics. From Robin Hood to Rocky, and Silence of the Lambs to Sister Act; including stars such as Robin Williams, Steven Seagal, Sean Connery, Michael Caine, and Tom Cruise. There are also many obscure films which film enthusiasts may find appealing.

Auctioneer Paul Keen “this is a fascinating collection, which should appeal to film enthusiast but also for those who long for some affordable dynamic artwork. With bids starting at just £10, these may also prove to be a good investment”.

The auction is on Wednesday 30th March at 10:30 a.m. Browse the catalogue online here.