Flood-hit recording studio back in the groove

A YORK recording studio that suffered major damage in the Boxing Day floods, less than a week after the owners of the company completed the purchase of the building, is now open for business following repairs and renovation.

Melrose Yard Studios on Walmgate was forced to close after rising water destroyed valuable recording equipment and ruined wooden flooring, carpets and soundproofed walls.

Sam Holdstock and business partner Iain Bolton, who took over Melrose Yard Studios seven years ago, said the floods caused damage of more than £20,000.

A crowd-funding page, which raised more than £4,500 was set up to help get the business back on its feet.

Mr Holdstock said: “We have been overwhelmed by the support from friends, customers and family who have come along to help us or pledged money. We were devastated by the damage, but the aftermath has brought the best out in human nature.”

The studio complex, which has played host to famous brands including The Enemy, includes three rehearsal rooms, a state-of-the-art recording studio, a teaching studio and customer equipment storage.

He added: “The floods devastated the premises with 14 inches of water coming into the building overnight. We lost a lot of musical equipment, which has had to be replaced. Re-soundproofing the building has also proved expensive.

“Now the renovation work is behind us, we can get back to what we do best – offering York musicians of all ages a variety of services including rehearsal space, recording and hosting hen parties and children’s birthday recording studio experiences.”

York-based Langleys Solicitors advised on the purchase of the building.