Musicians have vowed to boycott a popular gig venue after a run in with its management.

Thousands of people a year perform or watch concerts at The Hydrant in London Road, Brighton.

However, musicians have said all gigs at the venue near Preston Circus have been cancelled by its new management, which took it over three weeks ago.

Regulars say they have been told those running it want to turn the upper room where concerts have been held into a function room for weddings and other celebrations.

It came after a run in with those attending a concert at the pub on Saturday, June 23.

‘Cancelled’

The Argus tried contacting the venue a number of times but the phone is no longer in operation.

Dan O’Driscoll, who was part of a band called The Divided which played at the venue on Saturday, said: “The venue has cancelled all gigs at the venue without informing any of the bands or the promoters.

“In addition, the sound guys have walked out, taking their equipment with them.

“It’s completely unacceptable.”

A boycott has been started on social media website Facebook by a number of people who have commented about the incident.

Brighton-based band Jumping Ships wrote on their Facebook page: “RIP The Hydrant Brighton – sad to see another good venue go.”

Kristi Strumpet Edwards said: “It’s shocking to hear that one of the few remaining decent music venues in Brighton has now been lost.

"I hope you take on board all of the things that people are saying and put things right.”

Shaun Lonergan said: “I believe it’s the end of The Hydrant.

"Shame, I really had some fond memories of the place.”