FIRST the theatres closed, then the museums. Now it's the turn of the music venues.

Oxford's clubs and gig venues have responded to the coronavirus outbreak by cancelling shows and closing their doors.

The city’s largest dedicated venue, the O2 Academy Oxford, said everything was off until at least the end of the month.

A notice on its website reads: “Please be assured that the safety of all our staff, artists and visitors is of paramount importance and we take our responsibility very seriously.

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“All shows and events until 31 March are temporarily postponed, so to help keep you up to date of plans and changes, ticket holders of any affected event will be contacted directly.

“Music and live events are the lifeblood of our industry and decisions to reschedule shows and tours are not taken lightly. First and foremost, we must all follow official guidance from UK Government, the World Health Organisation, Public Health England and Public Health Scotland, as well as local authorities to minimise the risk of the virus’s transmission.  

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“As venue operators, our priority right now is to work with event promoters and organisers, to rearrange dates for artists, and to help us do that, we whole-heartedly appreciate your support to remain positive and productive as we all adapt to the challenges in this global situation. 

Oxford Mail:

Jody and the Jerms

“We will update you on ways in which we are doing our part, our management team remains vigilant and we are monitoring the situation in real time and responding as information evolves.

"We will do our utmost to keep our venue websites and communication channels up to date with the latest show and event details and all-important ticket information.”

It ends by saying: “Until we next see you, thank you for your patience and understanding.”

The city's iconic Jericho Tavern in Walton Street, has followed suit by cancelling all live music and comedy in its upstairs venue – though the downstairs pub stays open.

The Bullingdon, in Cowley Road, has followed other venues.

Among the casualties are the unfortunately-titled Jody & The Jerms who have been forced to musically ‘self-isolate’ after having their gig pulled at the Jericho.

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Frontman Niall Jeger said: “We’re slightly regretting choosing a band name with Jerms in it! Our gigs are being cancelled, but rightly so. Let’s all come back stronger and get out in force when normality returns, and support local venues, musicians and bars."