The Point music venue closes

The Point music venue in Cardiff Bay has closed with immediate effect.

The owners of the converted church blame the closure on difficult trading conditions and the burden of debt incurred by soundproofing work last year.

The Point has hosted a range of rock, jazz, blues and world music gigs, including Tinariwen and El Tanbura, along with a number of bellydance and burlesque shows.

A statement on the venue's website says: "Many people have put their heart and soul in turning the Point into the magical venue that it is and we have received huge and loyal support over the years from fans and bands alike.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for that support. It is a very sad day for us and for the live music scene in Cardiff."

Read the full statement here or see the story on the BBC News website.