There's fantastic news for Hitchin's live music scene — Club 85 will stay open after receiving a long-term commercial lease offer on its building.

The much-loved grassroots music venue confirmed that the landlords have agreed the team can continue hosting gigs and events while the details of the lease are finalised.

In a statement shared with supporters, Club 85 said:

"We've got some great news to share! The landlords have now offered us a long-term commercial lease on the entire building, and they have agreed that we can stay open and continue bringing you great bands, shows and events while we negotiate the details of the lease.

I'm sure that you will agree that this is amazingly good news as it means that Club 85 will STAY OPEN and keep on serving our local community for the foreseeable future and beyond!"

The update marks a major milestone for the venue, which has spent the past two years raising funds to secure its future through its "Battle Fund". The fund has helped cover legal costs, surveys and valuations as part of efforts to safeguard the site.

Club 85's team expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported the campaign so far:

"The response has been humbling to say the least," said Bob and the team. "We've still got lots more to do, but this is a huge step forward."

Supporters can continue to donate via the Club 85 Battle Fund on GoFundMe, and a major new crowdfunder is due to launch soon — with exclusive rewards — to raise the funds needed to buy the lease outright.

As Club 85 moves towards becoming a not-for-profit Community Interest Company, the venue remains committed to being a safe, inclusive space that brings the community together and celebrates the best in local, national and international live music.

"Wherever you are, buying tickets and going to gigs is the sustainable way to support your local grassroots music venue," the team added.