Underground music venue damaged by flooding

A team of music lovers is fighting to save their venue after it suffered flood damage.

The flooding at the Barrow Underground Music Society (BUMS), in Cumbria, was caused by a backed-up drain and rainwater leaking through a wall.

The venue's owner Rob Dunphy said the performance area, lighting, stage, carpets and sound deadening equipment were all damaged.

The grassroots music venue was run by volunteers and was a "very tight ship financially", so the damage was a "big blow" for the club, he said.

BUMS had to spend £1,100 on "immediately required repairs", Mr Dunphy said.

However, two of the venue's volunteers set up a GoFundMe page asking for help and members of the community quickly came to its aid.

"The fundraiser has actually passed its initial target in less than 24 hours," Mr Dunphy said.

"To say we are overwhelmed is an understatement. The town of Barrow stepped up to show their support for this loved venue."

The campaign initially aimed to raise £1,500 so the team could repair the stage, replace carpets and fix its music equipment.

"I am speechless and every penny of the money raised is going into getting us back open and essential repairs and maintenance for the place," said Mr Dunphy.

"It really is a massive relief."

The club has now increased its target to £2,000 after hitting its initial sum.

The additional money would allow the club to replace its "sodden carpet" instead of "patching it together", Mr Dunphy added.

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