A much-loved pub and live music venue in Salisbury has received a lifeline grant from Government to allow it to keep going.

The Winchester Gate in Rampart Road has been awarded £77,692 as part of the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund (CRF) to help it survive the coronavirus pandemic.

Landlords Robb and Abi Blake, who took on the venue in 2016, said the grant was "a huge relief".

"We are absolutely over the moon to be awarded this grant, it means original music can continue to flourish in Salisbury, and we can continue to provide a platform for local musician," said Robb.

Abi added: "The money will be used to cover our garden to allow us to put together a cultural programme of exciting activities from music, theatre, comedy, to visual arts and workshops."

The Winchester Gate, affectionately known as the Winni, is a dedicated original live music venue programming weekly local, national and international music acts.

The pub prides itself on giving local artists a stage to perform on and promoting music of all genres.

Commenting on the Government's Culture Recovery Fund, Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: "This is more vital funding to protect cultural gems across the country, save jobs and prepare the arts to bounce back. Through Arts Council England we are delivering the biggest ever investment in the arts in record time. Hundreds of millions of pounds are already making their way to thousands of organisations.

"These awards build on our commitment to be here for culture in every part of the country."

Customers of the Winchester Gate pulled together during the summer to set up a fundraiser for the venue.

Thanks to their generosity, nearly £8,000 was raised to help the pub cover the cost of rent.

The Winchester Gate say they would like to thank their staff, regulars, audience members, bands and artists who have performed at the venue and everyone who donated to their crowd funder.

They would also like to thank the Music Venue Trust for their support and guidance.