AS a Commercial Recording Studio in the area I want to write to express my full support to the Lancaster Musicians Co-op. They are a superb organisation that help stimulate the music industry in a major way.

I feel that it is vital to have a community based facility that isn't run on commercial lines. This allows young people to safely try out there new passion for music, meet other musicians, and rehearse and record on a low budget. The co-op is well run and is very much a needed part of the area's arts scene. They do a great job and it would be a crime if they have to disappear. In no way do they adversely affect any commercial organisations, indeed quite the opposite. Early in my business career (as Low Fold Audio) they helped me by renting me one of their equipment lockers to store my gear and helped me get started, something for which I am always grateful. They've also supported me by purchasing equipment from us.

The town centre location is crucial too, as many musicians without transport can get there easily.

As a community we should try to rally around and win local political support for them. It will be difficult I imagine because they will be up against large scale commercial pressure, but Lancaster should not give up on them too easily.

I feel that, at worst, if the commercial pressure to sell the land is too great, then the council have a serious obligation to re house the co-op in a suitable town centre location.

I wish them the best of luck - they deserve it.

Martin Hughes

Shireshead Recording Studio Forton                 Low Fold Professional Audio