A popular wine bar is once again under threat of closure after complaints from a nearby resident.

A noise abatement order has been served on the City Wall in High Street, Rochester, for a second time.

Licensee Sanjay Raval says the stress of the situation is making him think about walking away from the business.

He is lodging an appeal against the action taken by Medway Council enforcement officers.

He said: "I don't want to be going to court again and face a big fine.

"It's been bad enough for business getting through Covid. I just don't need this stress any more."

Mr Raval, who doesn't know who the complainant is, says he has complied with an order to keep the noise down made six years ago.

He has put up signage warning loud music or voices would not be tolerated on the premises he has run for more than 20 years.

Matters came to a head in 2018 when the businessman was fined more than £4,000 by magistrates for failing to comply with the order.

With his solicitors’ costs, the final amount he had to pay out was about £20,000.

Mr Raval has been in the licensing trade for more than 30 years and, at the height of his career, ran 27 pubs and bars, predominantly in Medway – employing 362 staff.

The 2008 recession hit hard and he was forced to wind up his company, Veena Leisure, also based in the High Street.

He then channelled his efforts into the wine bar and has built up a flourishing business.

This latest threat has triggered support on social media from thousands of customers who use the wine bar.

Hundreds have emailed the council's chief executive, Neil Davies, and ward councillor Stuart Tranter, who represents the town, with the message "Save the City Wall".

Mr Raval is also concerned the council might be about to order him to take down a canopy over the outdoor patio.

It was set up allow traders to open market stalls after months of losing business during lockdown.

He said he checked with the council, trading standards and licensing department and got their approval.

He said: "Sadly, this year we have lost many small shops on the High Street.

"It makes me sad to think somebody would complain when after all we are trying to support the community and small businesses."

He added: "I have been overwhelmed with the support I have had from customers and staff."

A recent post has attracted numerous comments from well-wishers.

Some question why other venues, some of which have live music, are not affected while others argue that if you live in a busy high street with a lively night scene you should expect some noise.

Medway Council confirmed it is pursuing the matter, but would not comment further.