WORCESTER News readers were saddened to read that Worcester’s bingo hall has permanently closed.

Buzz Bingo, in Foregate Street, will not be reopening after the franchise announced that 26 venues across the country will be permanently closed, due to the “severe impact” by the pandemic.

The venue was once a cinema and also a scene for music gigs, which saw popular acts such as the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Queen, David Bowie and Cliff Richard.

The Beatles had also played there twice.

Ryan Price said: “My dad saw Mott the Hoople with Queen opening there back in the early 70s. I think Bowie played there once aswell. Wouldn't it be cool if we turned it back into a big music venue?”

Lee Jackson said: “Imagine a council owned cultural centre? That'd be ace, wouldn’t it. Think of the acts, new visitors and amount of money you could bring into the city with a facility like that. This building would be perfect.”

Ben Burford said: “Someone please take it on as a live music venue. With the size you could get some big names once gigs are allowed to happen again. Just like when it was the Gaumont cinema with the Beatles, Bowie, stones, Roy Orbison to name a few all playing there.”

Nancy Elvy said: “I'm inconsolable but not surprised.”

Andrew Simmons said: “Unfortunately for some this is the only socialising they have, a number of which will be extremely upset. So sad.”

Andy Daniel said: “Yet another building to be empty in town.”