Band aid saves Doghouse

A live music venue in Dundee credited with helping bands including The View achieve stardom has been saved from permanent closure.

Mounting debts resulted in The Doghouse in the city's Brown Street being shut down in April.

However, a fundraising gig headlined by The View has helped cover the club's unpaid council rates.

The 350-capacity venue, which was once a schoolhouse, is set to officially reopen on Friday night.

Sarah Hill, who has run the club since 2004, paid tribute to all those who lent their support to the campaign.

She said: "I can't believe we have actually done it, it just shows you with a lot of hard work and determination you can achieve anything.

"The support from everyone including bands, local businesses, our customers, The Doghouse lovers and general public has truly been overwhelming and will not be forgotten."

The View, who performed at The Doghouse in the days before they secured a record deal, joined an array of other local bands for a fundraising gig last weekend.

Bassist Kieren Webster said: "We were just glad we could do something, Sarah helped us when we needed it and we were pleased to be able to give something back."

BBC, 8th May 2009