One of Sheppey's most popular pubs and restaurants has suddenly closed with a shock announcement on social media.

After five years of running the Playa on The Leas at Minster, brother and sister Neil and Laura Moran have closed the seafront venue with a "heavy heart".

The news was broken on their Facebook page earlier today. Jan 7

The couple took over the venue from their father Eddie in January 2017 but say they can't agree on a new rental agreement. They also blame Covid.

Laura said: "This week marks five years since Neil and I took over the reigns from our dad at The Playa. The last five years have flown by. We cannot believe we have come to the end of our tenancy."

She added: "It is with hugely heavy hearts that we have made the difficult decision to end our time at The Playa. This pub has been in our family for the last 25 years and this decision has not been one we have made lightly. But we are unable to find a way forward with our contract renewal."

She said: "We grew up in this pub, brought our children up here, made friends for life, laughed, smiled, cried and grew a wonderful business following on from the success of our amazing Dad.

"Unfortunately, the last two years have been hugely difficult for the hospitality trade and with the lack of government support we received, it has made it an impossible situation for us to push forward.

"We both have young families which we feel need our time and attention right now. We are looking forward to being able to spend more time with them throughout the coming months."

She paid tribute to the pub's customers, who she described as "some of the best people we have ever met" and thanked her staff for being the most "hard-working and loyal bunch of people you could wish to meet."

She also thanked the landlords for "working with us in a successful business partnership" and wished them "all the best with your future plans."

It is not known what those plans are but there are already rumours on social media it could be turned into flats.

Laura and Neil also run @19 at Sheerness Golf Club.

The Playa battled through the Covid lockdowns by initially offering a take-away food service. It has also hosted beach parties and has been a popular venue for live music.

Swale band Marylebone Jelly said today: "Disappointed to read this but understandable given the last two years. Wishing you the best of luck in your future endeavours.

Entertainer Jason Allen added: "So sorry to read this but wishing you all the best. Thanks for the gigs and the memories."

Abby Chandler posted: "I know exactly how you're feeling. Will always hold those special memories in my heart, too."

Claire Pierpoint wrote: "Sending much love to you all. I’ve got some great memories of nights in the Playa. Wishing you all the best."

Jayne Russon said: "So gutted to read this but totally get it. We’ve had some great times at the Playa and I would never have met and married my soul mate Guy without your help. Good luck to you all in the future."

Michelle Olden wrote: "I'm so sad that this has happened. Not only is it a fantastic pub, it is a community hub for lots of people."