WE sympathise with the musicians who have lost out on their bid to convert a council-owned bar into an "arts cafe".

As our story today reveals, their plan was to use the former Oscars Cafe Bar as a focal point for Bolton's musicians and artists.

Alec Martin, who has been campaigning for an arts cafe venue for several years, says this facility is much needed.

He compares Bolton with Bury, where there is a cafe bar for small gigs and local musicians.

"In Bolton there is nothing like it," he rightly points out.

The lack of a suitable venue for local groups has already been spotted by members of ACT -- a group dedicated to having an Amateur Community Theatre.

They have already been raising cash to fund a feasibility study to find a suitable place.

It may be worthwhile for the musicians and theatre groups discussing to join forces in this venture.

While their aims may not exactly be the same, both groups are dedicated to providing a facility which the town really needs.

We urge all involved in trying to get an arts venue not to give up on the venture.

Bolton's many musicians, artists and performers deserve to have a suitable venue where they can showcase their talents and entertain the public.