Cineworld Cinemas has launched a training initiative for line managers to improve their skills in recruitment, training, motivation and retention.

The cinema chain has invited general managers to spend two days away from their work environment to develop their people management skills at conference centres in the Lake District later this month.

In 2007 and 2008, the company focused on training managers in operational and retail skills and this year hopes to develop their HR capabilities.

Stuart Holdsworth, national learning and development manager at Cineworld Cinemas, said: "The course represents a clear signal that in this recessionary environment Cineworld Cinemas remains committed to the upskilling of its teams.

"We take the managers out of the business to a location where training can be conducted in a relaxed and informal way; it helps focus minds and creates an environment in which learning is paramount."