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A music group behind a flagship night at the LeftBank has revealed the venue near Stokes Croft has closed "indefinitely".

The popular live music bar in Cheltenham Road has yet to comment, but the LBJBs group, who have run a funk night there for five years, issued a Facebook statement last night (April 20).

They said: "It has come to our attention that the LeftBank Bristol has now closed indefinitely. This is very sad news for us and came as a bit of a shock.

"From the bottom of our hearts, we'd like to thank all bar staff, management, security (Fabian), Tom Egan, all the amazing musicians and of course all the amazing people that came to dance and socialise and otherwise make up this diverse and international community.

"Together, we created a truly unique vibe and atmosphere, something to be proud of - bless you all.

"Clearly with Covid-19, nothing is certain at present. However we’ll be looking to relaunch this amazing night somewhere else, as soon as things settle down."

'Gutted'

The LBJBs' LeftBank Jam Band session on Thursdays has become a popular fixture of Bristol's nightlife over the last five years.

The announcement sparked a flood of Facebook comments sharing memories and praise of nights at the LeftBank.

Loïc wrote: "Gutted, as you guys in that venue was one of the few things I was genuinely missing & one of the first thing in mind to do once this stuff would have gone.

"Bristol will defo need you playing somewhere else. Thanks to you all, the venue, staff and the sweetest doorman Fabian."

Dan commented: "End of an era. Those were the days books will be written about. I’m very upset I never got to say goodbye to the venue. Hopefully see you guys soon."

And Joe added: "Absolutely gutted. Nothing else compares to it. Amazing vibes and music in that place. I hope the people that ran it can bring those vibes elsewhere."

Fears for bars

The LeftBank has been closed since March 16 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The British Beer and Pub Association has warned thousands of pubs and bars could be "lost for good", and "hundreds of thousands of jobs too”.

The trade body said a special Government bailout would be needed to save the industry if bars are closed until Christmas.

The LBJBs revealed they are hoping to collate stories, pictures, and videos connected with their night for a commemoration.

If you would like to share anything, you can email thelbjbs@gmail.com and write ‘Leftbank Jam Contributions’ in the subject line.

The LeftBank has been approached for comment.