The man behind one of York’s top music venues is leaving after eight years

He has helped turn a York pub into one of the city’s top music venues – but now he’s moving on.

Chris Sherrington said he was “both sad and excited” to be leaving the Fulford Arms after eight years.

“However, with new projects and other opportunities arising it feels like the best time for me to bow out,” he said in a statement posted on social media.

“It has been a great privilege to help turn what was a slightly tired pub into the venue we have today and be a part of so many amazing nights, hosting great up and coming and legendary artists and helping to make so many lasting memories.”

Chris was one of the founder members of the York Music Venue Network, founded to help the live gig industry bounce back after the pandemic.

He will continue to be involved with the network, as well as putting on shows across the region in his role as an external promoter.

But he stressed things aren’t set to radically change at the Fulford Arms. “The amazing team lead by my business partner Chris Tuke and our venue manager Steph Collinson will be carrying on at the venue and will continue to develop what I am proud to say is one of the best grassroots music venues in the country..”

Chris Sherrington thanked the artists, promoters and customers for their support over the years.

“The thing I will miss most about being involved with the running of the venue is that team who truly are the heart and soul of the place.

“Without them this would never have been possible and they make it all worthwhile.”

Music fan Colin Ness summed up the thoughts of many when he said: “Wishing you the very best, Chris. The Fulford Arms is something of which you, Chris and the team should be extremely proud.”