Hull music venue saved by community fundraiser

A music venue and pub in Hull has been saved from permanent closure all thanks to a public crowdfunding campaign!

The Polar Bear was forced to shut its doors due to the coronavirus pandemic and went into administration not long after.

A fundraising appeal was then set up and more than £19,000 was raised to save the iconic venue.

In a statement the company announced:

"With your generosity, we are living paw to mouth.

"We’re reopening on the remaining funds, with a shoe-string budget, so maybe don’t expect UV lights and lasers anytime soon (or ever)! However, looking ahead, we do have lots of exciting and ambitious ideas that we’d love to bring to life, with HU5’s blessing.

"Our first task, to thank those who have supported us from the start of our crowdfunding mission, will be to contact everyone who is awaiting their crowdfunder reward.

"We’ll also be working on a membership scheme which will entitle our loyal customers to discounts and offers, whilst also helping us to continue to raise vital funds!"

The venue is due to open on Tuesday 24 August.