When cineworld was built (as virgin cinema) am sure I was told it had the largest screen in the UK? was this ever true and how does it compare now?

I thought either screen 7 or 8 is one of the biggest in Europe but I don't know now. I think someone on here works there so I'm sure they'll tell you.

Screen 7 was the largest standard screen (ie non IMax which is a different kettle of fish altogether) when it was built 10 years ago, and was one of only around 7 screens that size in Europe at the time. There are probably more of the same size now, but I couldn't tell you where.

it's 20.5 metres X 8.5 metres

Yep screen 7, still huge albeit i'm sure there's bigger ones now. If i recall right the screen was called 'The Full Monty' screen.