Please help us to save The ROCK BOX, Blackburn, Lancashire, which has recently been closed by the Council.

The original owners Andy and Karen have been trying hard to take back control of the business, prior to this happening.

Everybody who has been in The ROCK BOX knows how friendly a venue it is and the diverse clientele that is always welcoming to old and new customers, to the point where my wife feels safe going in there on her own.

The ROCK BOX also has a good connection with live events that occur at King Georges Hall, which gives people excitement prior to the concert and following the concert, soaking up the experience and discussing the event.

Andy and Karen have a wealth of experience running bars and pubs, as everyone who knows them will know.  They have always supported and raised funds for local charities, including Secret Santa for disadvantaged children.

They also embrace the diversity of Blackburn and previously promoted The ROCK BOX as part of Blackburn Pride.

People feel safe in The ROCK BOX, quite a few of which are lonely, suffer from social anxiety and live alone.  Having The ROCK BOX to visit is absolutely incredible for their mental health and wellbeing.

There are no music bars in Blackburn or neighbouring towns that I know of,  where you can request Rock and blues orientated music and they will play it on the screens.  The venue is an abundance of Rock and blues memorabilia including old concert tickets, photographs, drum skins and musical instruments to name but a few, this adds to a great experience.  Andy and Karen have provided a lot of the memorabilia from their love and experience of music, along with the community that have also donated items.  All of this makes a good talking point when meeting new and old friends.

The ROCK BOX also has a pool table and is part of a local league which helps support other venues.  They also support local artists by displaying their artwork.

Blackburn Town centre as we all know, has been on the decline for many years now and there is not many places to go for a beer/socialise and I can honestly say that I have never seen any trouble in there.

If Andy and Karen are unable to gain control of The ROCK BOX, it will be devastating for the town. This is a proven fact that when Andy and Karen ran it there were no issues, it was a substantive business.  If this doesn't happen, it will have a negative effect on the town, local charities, businesses and the diverse minorities in Blackburn.

You can also email rob.hosie@blackburn.gov.uk to show your support.

Thanks for taking the time to read this.