A small gig venue has been given new hope of survival after it smashed its fundraising target in six days.

The Booking Hall in Dover is closed for at least three weeks because of the coronavirus outbreak.

But loyal music fans by last night (Monday) raised £3,030 through crowdfunding, passing the goal of £3,000.

Donations poured in from last Wednesday as managers appealed for help for the venue to survive beyond the crisis.

They sent out a thank-you email to subscribers yesterday while donated sums were still inches from reaching target.

Their original bulletin, last Tuesday, said: "The Booking Hall has only been around for three years, let's hope we can be around for many more.

"With your help we can do just that. This is your venue, Dover, don’t let it go just yet."

The Booking Hall had to close last Saturday and is to stay shut at least until Saturday, April 11, during the Easter weekend.

Managers warned that the venue operates on tight margins so there was no guarantee it can open after the lock down ends.

The Booking Hall, at The Old Harbour Station in Elizabeth Street, is a popular independent venue with a standing capacity for 280 people.

It has had tribute bands such as Fleetingwood Mac, for Fleetwood Mac, and Who's Next for The Who.

It also hosts original groups such as the Seventies-founded ska group The Selecter, booked to play on Wednesday, May 6.

For further details visit the centre's website.

For the latest coronavirus news and advice, click here.

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