The family behind the popular music venue, The Hunter Club, in Bury St Edmunds, has confirmed that the club will remain open, dispelling recent concerns about its future. Speculation about a potential closure arose following social media posts, prompting the owners to clarify their plans.
Andy Hunter, along with his wife Nicky and daughter Lucy, reassured fans that the venue will continue with its scheduled events. The family emphasized their commitment to maintaining the club’s vibrant atmosphere, despite the departure of venue manager Nick Pooley, who has been instrumental in its operations for the past 16 years.
Commitment to Community and Events
The Hunter family stated that they will uphold the existing programme of events and are excited about the performances already booked. Andy Hunter remarked, “I can confirm that, as far as the music goes, we will carry on with the programme that’s been put together. The Hunter Club… will remain open.”
Regular events will continue, including gigs promoted by Washing Machine, jazz nights, tango classes, and other planned activities. While Pooley announced that the The Hunter Club Arts Centre CIC will lose access to the premises starting on April 1, 2024, the family’s focus remains on providing a welcoming space for the local community.
Lucy Hunter expressed gratitude for Pooley’s contributions, stating, “Nick, alongside many others, has helped to build a really interesting, exciting and vibrant space which we are extremely proud of.” She added that the overwhelming support from the grassroots music scene reinforces their determination to keep the venue thriving.
Future Plans and Upcoming Events
As the Hunter family transitions to a new operational model, they are exploring ways to utilize the building more effectively, including the introduction of daytime events alongside the usual evening schedule. Although details of future plans are forthcoming, the key message remains that the venue will not close.
Upcoming events include the bar opening on March 12, 14, 19, and 27. Notable performances include the comedy night “Sofa King Funny!” on March 13, and a drag bingo event titled “Now That’s What I Call Drag” on March 20. An all-day event, “Dirty Laundry,” is scheduled for March 21, with doors opening at 13:00. The Bury St Edmunds Film Society will host a screening on March 22, while the spoken word event “GOB” is set for March 26. The series will conclude with “Metal for Memories” on March 28.
With a commitment to keeping the community engaged, The Hunter Club looks forward to a vibrant future, ensuring that it remains a cornerstone of Bury St Edmunds’ cultural scene.
