More than £2,000 has been raised to resurrect a struggling music venue.

Alternative live music bar The Harp Restrung in Folkestone is facing closure due to changing tenancy agreements, building debts and a decrease in customer attendance.

And now, musician Sam McNamara - who has performed at the venue on more than 10 occasions - has launched a campaign to save the business, run by couple Chris Morton and Mel Ellse.

Sam, 29, said: "The Harp has hosted hundreds of bands, comedy shows, open mics and function evenings and has always been friendly, loyal and welcoming to all its customers.

"As of late, customer numbers for the Harp have been going downhill and together with rising tenancy prices and competitive businesses in the area, the Harp has run into a small amount of debt.

"There is a possibility it could close its doors for good, leaving the South East coast with even fewer platforms for rising local musicians to showcase their talent and denying music lovers the opportunity to relax and enjoy local shows."

Sam, who is one third of punk band Melisandre's Beaver along with James Nesbitt and Daniel Drew, started a Just Giving page to help the ailing club, in Grace Hill.

Within a week more than £2,000 had been collected.

"This all appeared out of the blue but it really gathered steam and has gone crazy..." Chris Morton

Sam, from Dover, said: "I was completely taken a back by it. It's absolutely incredible that people have come together and raised that much money.

"It just goes to show the support is there."

Bands that have played at the venue include Call Me Malcolm and Riskee And The Ridicule, who have toured the US and are now signed to Bomber Records.

Sam, who works as a mental health advocate for POhWER, is also organising an all day music festival to raise even more awareness and funds for the Harp.

Twelve acts will perform on Sunday, June 9 at the venue, covering a variety of genres.

"All the acts have volunteered to play for free at the venue in order to try to raise some funds to clear the businesses debt and get them back afloat comfortably," Sam adds.

Owner Chris Morton added: "This all appeared out of the blue but it really gathered steam and has gone crazy. We are so amazed by the support we've has so far, especially from the music community, including bands who have played on our stage once, and ones that have played here every three months for years.

"Our plan is to carry on - we need to get the threat of termination to our lease gone, and then carry on focusing on live music. We invite everyone to come down and support us, see some live music and enjoy a night out."

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