Salford Lads Club will remain open after closure threat: ‘This is your victory as much as ours’
The venue faced an existential threat last month.
By Nick Reilly
Salford Lads Club has confirmed it will remain open after the historic venue announced it faced the threat of closure earlier this year.
Graham Nash, Morrissey and Noel Gallagher were among those who donated or raised funds for the venue after it confirmed financial struggles last month.
The Greater Manchester club, opened by Scouting founder Robert Baden-Powell in 1904, was immortalised on The Smiths’ The Queen Is Dead artwork.
It is open six days a week and offers a safe space for young people from some of the city’s most deprived communities.
Now, they’ve reached a £250,000 target to stay open.
“We did it! Salford Lads and Girls Club is officially saved,” a new update began. “Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, we’ve smashed our £250,000 target, ensuring the doors of this iconic building remain open for our young people and the community.”
“From historic concerts to changing lives through youth work, this club has stood as a beacon of hope, culture, and connection. This funding ensures we can continue to make an impact for generations to come,” it added.
“A heartfelt thank you to every individual, business, and partner who stepped up to help us keep the lights on. This is your victory as much as ours. Together, we’ve shown what’s possible when a community rallies together.”
As for the club’s financial situation, The Guardian previously reported that its income for 2023 was around £160,000, with outgoings adding up to £394,700. The club also faces eye-watering annual bills of a staggering £43,000 (including utilised, insurance and building maintenance).
Nash donated £10,000 to the campaign, while Morrissey donated £60,000.