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The six-year prison sentence imposed on the former boss of Liverpool nightclub Lomax for drug dealing sent shockwaves through the city’s music community.

Frank Hedges, the former director of the Cumberland Street club, was jailed after he admitted openly selling cocaine to undercover police.

The 50-year-old was arrested after officers raided the venue on February 14 and seized cocaine and seven bags of cannabis.

It came after covert police bought cocaine from Hedges and two associates on five occasions from September 26 to January 11.

Liverpool Crown Court heard how Hedges joked with officers about being a ‘responsible licensee’ and said his ‘trusted friends’ could get them cocaine at any time.

But the court also heard he was passionate about the club and the city’s music scene and invested his time and money to promote and support young talent.

Paul Molloy, ex-Zutons guitarist and now of The Serpent Power, said: “The establishment and judicial system fail again. Sorry to hear. Hope your sentence passes quick.”

Liverpool musician Stuart Todd said it was “a genuine shock”.

He said: “The sentence is way too harsh. I feel bad for Frank and for his family.

“It was Frank and the team that made The Lomax a great venue again and that’s the legacy that every musician and concert goer should take away.

“Long live the Lomax, may it continue to shine.”

Tony Donaghey, who runs the grassroots Merseyside music Facebook page Liverpool Bands, said: “Six years – shameful decision. So gutted for Frank Hedges and his family.”

Posting a video of The Kinks’ All Day and All Of The Night, Ian McNabb, former frontman of The Icicle Works, said: “Sending this one out to my friend Frank Hedges. Love and light brother.”

The Jacaranda’s Joe Maryanji said: “Really sad news about Frank Hedges. Huge amount of love goes out to Jo and the family.

“It’s funny how something as misunderstood as drug use is viewed in mainstream media.

“Let’s just hope lessons have been learnt all round, not only by the bars and clubs but by the council as well.”

Louisa Roach, of Liverpool band She Drew The Gun, said: “Thinking about our good friend Frank Hedges today, one of the good guys, being made an example of.”

Liverpool musician Jo Bywater wrote on Facebook: “This is shocking, lots of love Frank & Jo, really can’t believe it. xxx”

Musician Sarah Beatrice Clifford, said: “My heart goes out to him and Joanne Hedges. I’m devastated, such a fabulous man!”

However, Paul Ventux of Liverpool band Masters of the Radio, said: “I think everyone within the music scene of Liverpool and surrounding areas have been let down with this whole matter.

“It brings a bad name to the music scene and people involved. I think this sentencing is the right thing.

“Supplying and taking drugs is wrong and it’s not giving the right impression to youngsters wanting to get into this industry.”

Hedges, of Hall Lane, Huyton, pleaded guilty to three counts of being concerned in the supply of cocaine and two counts of supplying cocaine.

Lomax was closed in the wake of the raid and has remained shut since Liverpool council revoked its licence.

Its new management team has said it intends to appeal the revocation of its licence, but the appeal is yet to be heard.