A popular bar is closing for good due to an increase of "criminals and alcoholics" in a town centre.

The Kings Head Sports Bar in Gravesend announced its closure stating that it has come as a result of the town's "deterioration".

In a statement posted online a spokesman said: "We have been running the Kings Head for 13 years, however, it has been a pub for more than 100 years.

"In the last few years Gravesend has deteriorated and in our view the local authority has allowed this.

"Crime has increased and so many criminals and alcoholics have been re-located to Gravesend town centre from other boroughs.

"This has contributed to the town's deterioration. Working with the public seven days a week we hear their views and so many say the same thing.

"They don't come to Gravesend for clubbing anymore, they would rather go to Rochester or Maidstone.

"We remember 10-years ago when Gravesend town centre was really busy with lots of clubs and pubs.

"People came from surrounding towns and the night-time economy was booming.

"Everyone benefited, including taxis, takeaways and restaurants.

"Now you can forget people from other towns coming here, even locals don't go clubbing in Gravesend.

"This is why we have decided to close the Kings Head permanently.

"It was a very difficult decision but we felt we had no choice. Thank you to all our loyal customers who have supported us during the last 13 years."

The sports bar has been subjected to a spate of crimes, assaults and licensing issues over the years.

In June 2021 hooded thieves broke into the bar and carried away a safe containing £15,000.

The business was targeted by three men who were captured on CCTV entering the back of the property.

Later that year there was a vicious gang attack outside the premises which left the victim requiring facial surgery.

Police called for a licensing review after a man in his 20s was repeatedly punched in the head and left with serious injuries.

Two years earlier, in 2019, a bouncer tackled a man who pulled a gun on him while he was working on the door of the Kings Head.

And in 2016 a former investment banker pleaded guilty after he became violent and hurled racist abuse at the bar while his brother threw coins.

The watering hole's last day trading will be on Sunday, March 19.

However it is inviting its customers to a 'One Last Dance' event on Saturday, March 18, to "remember the good old days."

The Kings Head have been contacted for comment and further information.

Gravesham Borough Council declined to comment.