New owners to reopen Guernsey live music bar

A live music venue in Guernsey is set to reopen under new ownership.

In November The Vault in St Peter Port announced its closure due to the cost-of-living crisis and a change of culture.

Assistant promoter Martin Welch, lease holder of the property, said they had several inquiries and one couple has taken on ownership to continue the work of the previous owners.

"I've explained the music industry won't make them a millionaire but it's more of a lifestyle choice and awesome they want to support local music and artists," he said.

Welch said: "We've been very lucky with the new ownership team.

"They've been handy with the paintbrush, and I love their new artwork… It's very reflective."

Welch said it was a new era but with the original aim of supporting local artists, the economy and giving islanders a place to go.

He said its diary was beginning to fill up for the year including album launches, UK bands, and acts from Jersey.

"We want to support everyone, that is what The Vault is about," Welch said.

"In our early days we had bands who would pack the place and others who would empty the place, but it was all about giving them the platform.

"I think we've all spent enough time indoors, it's important not just for music but for our own mental health and wellbeing to get out and speak to people."

Welch said they had seen a "decline in the night time economy" and they would like to give islanders a reason to go out.

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