Fundraising Effort Launched to Save Historic Newcastle Music Store

A collective of football supporters is seeking a “Christmas miracle” to prevent the closure of a cherished music establishment. The JG Windows music store, situated in Newcastle’s Central Arcade, has ceased operations permanently, and the company is anticipated to enter liquidation on December 12. Supporters of Newcastle United have initiated a fundraising campaign, aiming to collect £500,000 to preserve the store, as part of an effort to “support the city and businesses.” Notable artists such as Lindisfarne, Kathryn Tickell, and the Pet Shop Boys have expressed sorrow regarding the impending closure of the venerable establishment, which commenced operations in 1908. The directors stated their inability to compete effectively with online retailers, yet they expressed hope for a potential buyer to intervene. Bronwyn Mogie, 31, from Jarrow, is one of the individuals spearheading this appeal. “Although it is a big amount, miracles do happen this time of year so you never know,” she commented. She indicated that the fans recognized that securing the funds would be merely the initial phase, but she expressed optimism that collectively they could devise a strategy to position the shop “in the right market place.” She further noted that St James’ Park has a capacity for 52,000 fans, and if each contributed £10, the financial goal would be met. To date, over £1,300 has been collected, and Ms. Mogie conveyed the group’s appreciation for the assistance received. The Newcastle-based band Lindisfarne stated that the store had served as “a friend” to the group since the 1970s. The band remarked: “When Rod, Jacka and Ray briefly reunited outside the shop last year to play a short set, the arcade was packed to the rafters.” Kathryn Tickell, a musician celebrated for her passion for the Northumbrian pipes, recounted purchasing her initial LP at the store and recalled utilizing its listening booths. “I also remember going in there with a bag full of cassettes of me playing the pipes that they sold for me – I’d be about 15 years old,” she further stated. Numerous music enthusiasts have reached out to Ms. Mogie since the initiation of the fundraising effort. One individual informed her: “It was always more than a shop – it is part of our northern music heritage and an iconic form of cultural history. “I bought Sgt Pepper there, on the day of release in 1967 with my saved-up pocket money.” Another person mentioned acquiring his first guitar at the location. “What a wonderful store and a huge part of our city’s music heritage,” he concluded.