Thank you for reporting the fate of the Hanbury Ballroom (The Argus, July 11).

I echo the sentiments of music promoter, Dave Morrison, in saying I am devastated at the closure of this iconic venue, where I have spent many fantastic evenings enjoying acts from all over the world, often courtesy of Dave's Gilded Palace of Sin.

The room has a very special atmosphere, set off by the decorated dome. Although the building is not in the best state of repair (like a lot of Brighton), the Venetian decay and obligatory fairy lights only add to its charm.

The loss of the Hanbury as a live music venue for real people will blow a huge hole in our vibrant music scene and with this lack of daring will come a further decline in the numbers of musicians, artists and their supporters gravitating to Brighton (already happening because they can't afford to live here).

Who will pay to join the Hanbury Club? Who will be there on Tuesdays, when the elite members are in London earning enough to afford the membership fees?

Hopefully, the new owners will realise they need customers midweek, too, and maybe will organise some suitable musical entertainment. Well, we can hope.

-Wendy McAngus, Brighton