FEARS have been raised for the future of a 'valued local live music venue' after its owners decided to put it on the market.

The Greys in Southover Street, Brighton, has gone on the market raising concerns among staff about its future.

Ward councillors have vowed to fight to keep The Greys as thriving community pub and music venue after it was put up for sale for £375,000.

Staff have told customers they are “really sad” about the move and did not know what it meant for the pub’s long-term future.

The pub has an asset of community value listing which would make it far more difficult for any new owner to turn it into flats.

Labour Councillor Emma Daniel said she was “really sad” to see the “well-loved” Greys on the market as a rare and high-quality live music venue.

She added: “It really is part of the character of my ward and I know residents are worried about losing this venue.”

Green Councillor Dick Page said the area had mixed results with recent pub closures with the Horse and Groom becoming a very popular all-day café bar but the London Unity lost to flats.

He added: “I sincerely hope no one tries to turn The Greys into grey flats.

“I really support its designation as an official asset of community value and I hope new owners will allay fears that it will stop providing a valued local live music venue.”

A spokeswoman from Ei Publican Partnerships, formerly Enterprise Inns, said: “As part of our on-going business, we do from time to time identify a pub that may no longer have a future in our estate.

“After careful consideration, the decision has been made to sell the freehold of The Greys Inn.”