Venue operator Broadwick Group has unveiled its new charity, 9.8, aimed at enhancing community engagement and accessibility at its venues, including the largest, Drumsheds. Since opening the 15,000-capacity North London venue in September 2023, the charity has distributed 5,000 free event tickets and partnered with local charities to offer subsidised space. Named after the Earth’s average gravitational pull of 9.8 meters per second squared, the charity aspires to create “centres of cultural gravity” where diverse groups can experience music, art, and culture.

Paul Gilley says he has never seen so few new jobs in the UK hospitality sector – across restaurants, bars and hotels.