That's your Lot for arts bistro venue

ARTS venue and bistro The Lot has announced that it will close at the end of January.

Bosses say it will continue to exist as a Christian charity to promote community arts, but that its current events such as the Ceilidh Club, the vintage Magpie Market, and Buskers' Brunch and Corner Sessions will move venue.

It has also staged numerous art exhibitions, gigs and workshops such as the Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival, Fringe shows and the International Magic Festival in 2010.

Charity trustees told staff on December 7 that in its current form The Lot was not viable. The charity will relinquish its lease of 4-6 Grassmarket at the end of February.

Ann Nelson, chair of the board said: "We believe there is a place for a charity like The Lot (Edinburgh) in the cultural scene in Edinburgh and beyond, but in the present climate not one operating from a building like 4-6 Grassmarket in the way we currently do."

The venue and bistro will be operating normally until the end of January. Bosses thanked all customers, supporters, staff and artists for their support over the past six years.