Speculation is spreading that Deal nightclub Rivals has closed because of money troubles.

Rumours broke out on social media sites on Wednesday night.

The Queen Street club is owned by Herne Bay based FS Leisure Ltd.

The firm has not confirmed or denied the suspicion but director Alison Mannering said a sign was put up outside saying: "Rivals Nightclub is closed until further notice.

"Discussions for the redevelopment of the site are in progress."

An anonymous email, sent to the Mercury on Thursday morning, said: "Rivals has been closed with immediate effect, staff dismissed.

"Staff weren't even told why."

It is not thought to be related to police re-bailing three door staff from the club in connection with the death of Michael Bowls outside Rivals in August.

After the death of Mr Bowles of King Street, Margate, the suspects were bailed until last November, then again until Wednesday, January 22.

The men, who are employed by a separate SIA licensed security company, have been re-bailed until Thursday, April 23.