THERE has been an outpouring of sadness as a Bradford city centre venue announced it has cancelled all future events - but the organiser has hinted at its new spot.

Tickles Music Hall, in Westgate, has delighted live music fans since reopening in September 2021, after undergoing a transformation that retained the “charm and character” of the original venue, which first opened under the same name in 1982.

It has welcomed many popular acts over the years and was named Leisure Venue of the Year 2023 in the Telegraph and Argus Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Awards.

But the venue announced on its Facebook page last night that all future events at Tickles had been cancelled and that it was moving to a new location.

An act on stage at Tickles Music Hall (Image: Shannon Palmer)

The post said: “Hi folks, unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control we have cancelled all future events at Tickles.

“We are moving to a new location and will feature as many of the bands and acts that you favour in due course. We will keep you updated as soon as possible.

“Thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you in the future.”

Ellen Boyle, Events Manager, said: “I have very much enjoyed my time at Tickles Music Hall and wish everyone involved the very best for the future, as I embark upon new projects.”

Tickles Music Hall wins an award at the Telegraph and Argus Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Awards in 2023Tickles Music Hall wins an award at the Telegraph and Argus Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Awards in 2023 (Image: Newsquest)

The venue’s Facebook page has since been renamed “Ellenb music”, with its profile picture and cover photo also changed around two hours after the announcement.

The news was met with strong emotion across social media, with 40 sad reactions and 38 shocked reactions to the post, at the time of writing.

Maureen Rebecca Smith shared the post and said: “Such a shame another great Central Bradford venue gone.”

A response from the Ellenb music page gave some insight it what the future might hold.

It said: “It's moving to another venue on Ivegate.”

Ellen Boyle, events manager, putting the finishing touches inside Tickles ahead of its reopeningEllen Boyle, events manager, putting the finishing touches inside Tickles ahead of its reopening

Rebecca Calvert also shared the post and said: “Going to miss Tickles Music Hall.”

Ellenb music replied: “You'll be fine. I don't forget anyone especially people I work with. I'm on it girls.”

Pamela Humphreys said, “so sad for this”, while Lynne Stokes lamented not having the chance to get to Tickles, tagging two other people and saying “never did get there”.

Tickles Music Hall Westgate 1993Tickles Music Hall Westgate 1993

Meanwhile, on a post shared by Bradford Pubs And Clubs Past And Present, Christine Middleton said: “That’s sad to hear. Had some great nights here. Fantastic venue.”

On the post from the venue itself, Glenn Mansfield said: “Oh that’s a real shame, loved playing at that venue. Great atmosphere, sound, staff and crowd.

“Good luck for whatever comes next!”

Penelope North said: “Nooooo loved Tickles Music Hall as is!!! Hope your new venue is still in centre of Bradford and as cool. That venue was perfect, welcoming and friendly. Good luck and keep us updated.”

Gaynor Baxter added: “We will be at the new venue.”

Ellenb music said in response to someone on that post that some upcoming events have been booked at the new venue where possible.