A nightclub that shut suddenly after its boss was accused of sexually abusing children three decades ago is set to reopen tomorrow.

Following his court appearance earlier this month, Duncan Bayles announced Sundowners in Margate would temporarily close while new management was put in place.

The 63-year-old shared the news after pleading not guilty to 17 charges relating to the abuse of four boys at children’s homes in the 1980s and 1990s.

He added he would “vigorously” defend himself in court, but said it was best if he resigned from his post at Sundowners “with immediate effect”.

It has now been confirmed Proud Pink Inns will reopen the venue tomorrow.

It said: “Proud Pink Inns is proudly gay-owned and managed, and we look forward to welcoming you.

“Our team is headed by our director and general manager Iain Maxstead, who has more than 25 years’ experience in the LGBTQIA+ community and licensing trade and brings a wealth of knowledge to the venue.

“Iain and his husband David have enjoyed 36 years together and stand united in providing the best environment for our customer experience.

“We pride ourselves in providing the community and their allies with a safe and welcoming space.

“We would like to take this opportunity to invite you to join us when we open on Friday for welcoming drinks. Our first event will be the Halloween fancy dress party on Saturday with prizes and treats.”

Mr Bayles is from a separate company to the one that has recently taken over the running of the nightclub.

His trial is due to start on October 14 next year and will last two to three weeks.

At a hearing at Canterbury Crown Court on October 16, he denied 11 counts of indecent assault, five of indecency with a child, and one of attempted rape.

The offences are alleged to have occurred when the complainants were aged under 13.

Bayles was said by prosecutor Toby FitzGerald to be acting as a care assistant at the time in respect of three children’s homes - two in Deal and one in Ramsgate.

Bayles was released on conditional bail by Judge Mark Weekes until a further case management hearing on May 31.