Music venue smashes revamp fundraising target
BBCA music and arts venue that set out to raise £10,000 for the renovation of its "shabby" exterior has hit its fundraising goal.
The Tin, which is in a former coal storage area in Coventry's canal basin, was awarded £31,343 to carry out the work from the Veolia Trust - but with the condition it contributed £10,000 to complete the project.
The venue smashed its target after former Coventry resident John Willcox, who now works in the music industry in LA, donated the final £3,900.
The front of the building has been in danger of falling off and repairs are now under way.
Jess Harper, marketing manager at The Tin, said the contribution was "incredible".
She said Willcox had gone on to do "amazing things" in music in California, adding: "We're so grateful for this donation. It's really helped us."
Thanking everyone for their "amazing" support, she said: "We're really overwhelmed with how many people have come out to all of the events we've put on, how many people have donated and all the bands and acts that have volunteered to play."
Supporters contributed to an online fundraising drive and several local bands volunteered to play at a fundraising gig last month. In total, The Tin raised £10,380.
After the news was announced on Facebook, Willcox said: "Smaller, independent grassroots venues like The Tin are the lifeblood of the music industry.
"They serve as launching pads for emerging artists and DJs and cultural hubs for communities, forming the beating heart of our local music scene.
"These venues offer a platform for new talent to flourish, create unforgettable experiences, and contribute significantly to Coventry's cultural landscape and economy."
Over the years, The Tin has hosted many performers who went on to become household names such as The Wombats, Imelda May, Joan As Policewoman and Feet, which formed at Coventry University and were Tin regulars before touring big venues.
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