STAR studded celebrities officially opened Reading's new community hub last week- Reading Biscuit Factory.

Scottish singer Tallia Storm and model Hamidah Brinkley attended the event at the former Argos unit in Broad Street Mall on Wednesday, September 8.

Reading Biscuit Factory is a multi-use venue, home to a three-screen independent cinema and event space, bar, food kiosks, coffee shop and live performance space.

Speeches were given by Preston Benson, founder of Really Local Group, and The Mayor of Reading, Cllr David Stevens.

Reading Chronicle:

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Guests sampled a variety of signature dishes on offer by Crumbs Food Co, as well as drinks provided by Wokingham's Siren Brewery and Indigo Wine.

Preston Benson, Founder of Really Local Group, said: “After nearly four years and three lockdowns, we are proud to launch the Reading Biscuit Factory at Broad Street Mall. We can’t wait to show the residents of Reading and the surrounding communities our beautiful venue, as well as share more details around our exciting cultural programme. There will be something for everyone at Reading Biscuit Factory!”

Reading Biscuit Factory is open from 9am each day for those who want to meet over a cup of coffee.

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The first film screenings usually start from around 11am and the last around 8.30pm. The venue will generally close at 11.30pm, unless there is a special event (or a very long final film!).

The name was inspired by Reading's iconic biscuit factory.

Joseph Huntley was selling biscuits to travellers making the journey from Reading to Bath or London as early as 1822; he invented the biscuit tin to help prevent breakages on the journey.

Joseph Huntley’s small bakery eventually grew into Huntley & Palmers, the largest employer in Reading, and by 1900 it was the world’s largest biscuit company.

The vast factory earned Reading the appropriate nickname of the “Biscuit Town”.