Customers say they are “absolutely gutted” as an iconic music venue is to shut after 26 years.

Owners of The Chambers in Folkestone have announced their closing date.

The coffee shop-come-bar and restaurant was opened by husband and wife team Chris and Liz Smith in 1998 and became one of the town’s top spots for music, regularly hosting bands, DJs and solo artists.

However, in October last year, the couple released a joint statement saying that the building in Cheriton Place would be put up for sale.

They said the past few years have been tough for them, as well as many other businesses in the town.

And today (October 29) on Instagram the pair posted a message, explaining how the “time has come” to move on.

They will close the venue on Saturday, December 7, which falls just days after their 26th anniversary.

The pair go on: “As you can imagine the word ‘easy’ hasn’t featured in any part of this decision being made and in simple terms it’s a manifestation of the way things have been since lockdown.

“We guarantee you all, we’ve given it our everything.

“We’ve loved what we’ve done here and feel we’ve been part a fundamental part of Folkestone’s renaissance, even before it even realised it was having one.

“We’ve worked hard, not just for where we live but elsewhere too and those things have mattered – they REALLY have – but not anywhere near as much as the times we’ve had and the friends we’ve made, the events we’ve put on together with some awesome folk, the artistes we’ve brought to town, the huge amount of laughter, the never giving up until we had to – and above all, the music, the music, the music.”

Previously Mr Smith told KentOnline that the venue had “never been quieter”, with fewer people coming out to enjoy the acts he puts on.

Social changes, lockdowns and the cost of living were just some of the factors to blame.

Since the announcement, dozens of messages from customers have been flooding in via social media.

One person said: “Absolutely gutting. You've been a staple in the time we've been in Folkestone so far.

“Very grateful to have had a chance to play. See you for (at least) one more drink.”

“Thanks for everything guys,” another added.

“The Chambers is a huge contributor to the success and improvement that Folkestone has now seen. You will be missed.”

While a third person commented: “We love the Chambers. Thank you for everything you have done for the town and hoping that a buyer is found soon.”

The venue is still up for sale, as Chris and Liz add: "Just because our chapter is at an end, it doesn’t mean someone else shouldn’t start writing a new one."