One of Leicester’s most iconic city centre music venues has announced its closure.

The Musician Pub, based on Crafton Street West in the city, has offered live music six nights a week since the early 2000s, with a capacity of 220 people.

Owner Darren Nockles took to social media to confirm he had “sadly” sold the pub but did promise “a new chapter has begun”.

He wrote: “The building needs considerable amounts of money spending on it and the business faces huge financial challenges.”

Mr Nockles thanked all the pub’s musicians, promoters, sound engineers, staff, partners and supporters.

“But most of all to you for buying tickets and loving music as much as we do,” he added.

“A venue is nothing without the dedication and creativity of those who perform and work there.”

The pub was partnered with music venue The International, in Garden Street, and acts will still able to perform there. Mr Nockles asked people to ‘support it’.