SALISBURY'S biggest nightclub has been sold after "25 challenging years of fun and excitement".

The Chapel has always been a staple in the city's nightlife scene, looked after and supported by local individuals and businesses, and is now being taken over by national operators Epic Bars and Clubs.

Announcing the takeover today, May 17, The Chapel team says the change in ownership will give the club the resources it needs to continue post-pandemic.

This comes after what the team has described as "25 challenging years of fun and excitement".

Despite this, previous directors Jonty and Amanda Newbery are staying rooted in their other Salisbury ventures - hospitality and live entertainment hub Brown Street, and pub The Duke of York.

Amanda, now managing director of Knightwood Leisure, said: "When Epic approached us earlier this year, we knew it was time to hand over to a new team of people who can give The Chapel every bit of love and care that it needs."

Describing plans for the nightclub as "fantastic" she added: "These people have been in the business for many years and know exactly what they're doing.

"We want this to be a massive success for them and for the Salisbury nighttime economy and we know they have the very best chance from checking out their previous projects that they've been involved with.

"For now, Adam, Nick and I have lovely plans for Brown Street, there's lots more to come from us - we're not going anywhere."

Jonty, Knightwood Leisure director, added: "I've had the experience of a lifetime since we opened The Chapel in 1997 but in the past few years, I've just loved being a pub landlord and look forward to concentrating on my time at The Duke of York and with my new friends."

Chief executive of Epic Bars and Clubs Mark Shorting said "exciting development plans to enhance the superb venue" will be revealed once comments and ideas are taken from current customers and staff.

He said: "We are delighted to be able to acquire such a landmark venue to add to our growing portfolio of fantastic nightclubs across England and Wales.

"For now, The Chapel will continue to operate exactly as it always has but customers will notice exciting changes in the coming weeks and Salisbury's nightlife should benefit from everything that Epic has planned for The Chapel."

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