Colston Hall is to reopen its foyer on select days to allow extra blood donation sessions to take place.

The foyer has been closed to the public since Wednesday 18 March due to the ongoing Coronavirus outbreak, but the donation of blood has been designated as an essential activity during lockdown and the large open plan foyer provides a suitable space for the sessions to take place.

Louise Mitchell, Chief Executive of Bristol Music Trust, said:

“Our spacious foyer allows for social distancing to be observed while vital blood donations are made. Many venues usually used by the NHS are not suitable because they are not large enough for the appropriate distancing measures, so we are very pleased to be able to offer the hall and help in this way. The safety and well-being of our staff and visitors remains paramount and we will be observing all proper guidance and working closely with the NHS to ensure these sessions go ahead safely.”

The sessions are by appointment only, drop-ins will not be admitted, and the foyer otherwise remains closed to the public. To register as a blood donor, see available sessions and book an appointment, please visit: https://my.blood.co.uk/