London Pub Saved As Live Venue

The Half Moon is saved by owners as closure looked inevitable

A London pub famed for its role in the early development of some of the biggest bands in the world has been saved as a live music venue, it has been announced.

Famed for playing host to early gigs by a range of bands such as The Rolling Stones, U2 and The Small Faces, The Half Moon in Putney has been handed a last minute reprieve by the brewery that owns it, and will now remain a live music venue for the foreseeable future.

Says the venue’s manager, James Harris: "The support from the public and the industry has been overwhelming. This was never just about jobs, but about a part of our music heritage. We still face tough times ahead, but at least we can move forward now, and my staff and myself are thrilled and excited”.

The Half Moon was due to close on 31 January but thanks to the change of heart from the brewery and the general support from the public who signed up to petitions and groups, it is possible that the next big thing in music may well make an appearance at the pub at some point in the near future.

(Half Moon Putney)