An iconic seafront amusement arcade in Margate has been forced to close due to significant trading losses.

The doors to the Fabulous Showboat in Marine Terrace, run by Praesepe, shut unexpectedly with a sign in the door thanking customers for their support over the years.

Mark Schertle, chief operating officer at the company, says despite the outstanding contribution of staff and management to provide a great service to the community and tourists, the venue has made a significant trading loss for the past few years.

"The Fabulous Showboat has commenced a full consultation process with the team of the Margate venue," he said.

"The purpose of which is to explore ways of avoiding or minimising the potential risk of any redundancies.

"Every effort will be made to seek redeployment opportunities within the Praesepe Group."

The arcade shut on January 16. It comes almost a year after the Beacon Bingo club, located next door and also run by Praesepe, closed after 35 years in the town.

Members were shocked when the announcement came with bosses, again, citing significant trading losses.

Beacon Bingo, next door to Showboat, shut last year, putting 25 jobs at risk.

Meetings were held to see if staff could be relocated to other businesses in Thanet - including the Showboat amusement arcade.

Praesepe Group ran the bingo club for seven years.

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