GREASE was the word in Bromsgrove this weekend for Artrix’s sell-out launch of the town’s first drive-in cinema.

Around 300 visitors turned out, dozens dressed in leather jackets or 50s frocks, to watch the hit musical comedy Grease from the comfort of their cars in Artrix car park.

Some guests pulled into Slideslow Drive in convertible or classic cars, while others came equipped with blankets, picnic baskets, truck bed mattresses and pop top roofs.

The movie was projected onto a large screen on the side of the Artrix theatre on Friday and Saturday night, and the soundtrack was played through headphones, which were handed to guests on arrival.

Drivers and their guests enjoyed hot dogs, fish and chips and veggie burgers from Sidemoor Fish bar, as well as drinks from the Artrix bar.

Bromsgrove resident Jamie Hubbard, who attended Saturday’s showing with his family, said: “It was brilliant. Sitting in your own car, watching, singing along and having a dance around – really cool. I would recommend the drive-in any day of the week. We all loved it.”

The rain didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits and audiences sang, honked their horns and flashed their lights along to the closing credits.

Basepoint Bromsgrove, one of the 11 Best of Bromsgrove businesses to sponsor the drive-in, later tweeted: “Had a brilliant night ‘Stranded at the Drive-In’. You did Bromsgrove proud.”

The Grease-themed weekend included a children’s drive-in, where youngsters made their own cardboard box cars and watch Cars, the movie, and a Grease sing-along showing in the auditorium.

Presenter Tammy Gooding hosted the event and proceeds were donated to Children in Need.

Artrix director Hannah Phillips said: “The Grease weekend was a huge success and most of all great fun. The staff enjoyed themselves as much as the audience.”

She added: “It was also great to see many new faces and such a diversity of age ranges. Many thanks again to our drive-in sponsors. We’re already busy planning our Halloween Drive-In.”

Tickets are now on sale for Artrix’s Halloween Drive In: Blade on Sunday, October 30. They cost £20 per car and are available at artrix.co.uk or by calling 01527 577 330.

For a sneak peak at this weekend's launch, click here.