FANS have been left heartbroken after an iconic nightclub has shut its doors after 45 years.
The Moles music venue in Bath has announced that it has closed after decades of hosting bands including Oasis and Radiohead.
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Club owners shared the news on social media earlier this week stating that it will shut with immediate effect.
In a lengthy post they said they are “heartbroken” and it was an “incredibly difficult decision”.
The statement reads: “We’ve weathered many things over the years, including a fire and a pandemic in the last 10 years alone, but this cost of living crisis has crippled the grassroots music sector.
“Although that is not the only problem, it has accentuated it.
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“Huge rent rates, along with massively increased costs on everything from utilities to stock, are all factors.”
Frequenters of the venue and former revellers were quick to share their devastation at the news.
One said: “So sad. Should get national heritage status.”
Another wrote: “What a shame. Had some great times in Moles over the years!”
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A third commented: “Wow. What an absolute loss to the city. Great place and vibe.”
A fourth said: “Truly sad day for music.”
And a fifth posted: “Absolutely devastating news.”
Others shared their own memories of visiting the club over the years.
Some of the UK’s biggest bands and artists are known to have performed at Moles before making it big.
Ed Sheeran, The Killers, Fat Boy Slim, Oasis, Blur, Radiohead, The Smiths, Pulp and Idles all played at the 220-capacity venue during the early stages of their careers.
It comes after a difficult time in the leisure and hospitality industry.
According to the Music Venue Trust, about 120 of the UK’s small venues – about 15% of the total – have closed or stopped putting on gigs this year.
Energy costs have risen and more punters are cutting back on nights out.
This has left some venues grappling with inflationary costs and left with no choice but to close sites to cut costs.
Big brand chains have been closing locations across the country.
Elsewhere, Britain’s oldest casino closed for the last time after 195 years in business.
While another town was dealt a “huge blow” when Cineworld branch has announced it’s closing.
Elsewhere, a popular Glasgow nightclub announced its shock closure in August – leaving clubbers heartbroken.
Pryzm is said to be shutting one of its 10 sites in the New Year, leaving clubbers devastated.
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