An iconic live music venue in Leicester, which has hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry, has closed its doors to the public after it ran into financial difficulties.

The Charlotte, which is owned by pub company Punch Taverns, has staged gigs by the likes of Oasis, Radiohead and the Stone Roses during its illustrious history, but has now been forced into administration. A spokesperson for Punch Taverns said: "We recognise that it is an important part of Leicester life and we remain committed to its future.

"Unfortunately our former licensee's business has gone into administration, so matters are currently in the hands of practitioners. Once we know the position from their point of view, we will be able to take steps to re-let the pub and re-open it. "We would ideally like to keep the pub as a live music venue and would be keen to hear from local entrepreneurs who may be interested in talking to us about the future of the pub."

It had been hoped that another Leicester venue, arts centre De Montfort Hall, may be able to help out as The Charlotte faced closure, but manager, Richard Haswell revealed that nothing could be organised in time. He said: "If asked, we would do anything we could but it really wasn't up to us. It was up to The Charlotte itself to ask and I'm fairly sure they haven't done that.

"The news to date isn't that good. The offer remains as to what we can do to help. It would be very bad news if it closed." Image: Leicester Mercury