Landmark music club JB's in closure threat

LANDMARK West Midlands music club JB's has gone into administration after more than 40 years of helping to launch the careers of a string of stars.

The club has built up debts of £450,000 and now faces an uncertain future as it looks for a buyer. Up to 25 jobs could be at risk if it closes for good.

JB's, in Castle Hill, Dudley, has played host to legends such as Robert Plant, Manic Street Preachers, U2 and The Stone Roses.

But now owners Sam and Sue Jukes have decided to call it a day because of mounting debts. Events will be honoured until Christmas, but the venue faces closure if new owners cannot be found.

Stourbridge-based administrator John D Travers & Co took control of the business on Thursday and has placed it on the market.

Recession

Half the debts are mortgage costs and £80,000 is owed to suppliers. The rest is money the directors have ploughed in themselves.

Mrs Jukes, aged 59, said: "The recession has hit us, and the terrible weather in January didn't help."

The club is open, with Mr and Mrs Jukes running it until Christmas. Band bookings are being honoured.

Sid Weston, aged 65, of Caswell Road, Sedgley, who helped set up the club with Mr Jukes and John Bryant, after whom it was named, said: "It's come to a crunch." He added it would be a "terrible shame" if the club was lost.

"People are appalled that there's even a chance the club might close," he said.

EXCLUSIVE by Charlotte Cross