Terrace bar bosses unexpectedly announced they will bring the shutters down less than a year after reopening under new management.

Sundowners in Margate was relaunched on October 27 last year after a brief but sudden closure, with Proud Pink Inns boss Iain Maxstead and husband David at the helm.

But despite only being under their stewardship for a year, the pair have decided to part ways with the LGBTQIA+ bar.

Announcing the closure and voicing hopes of finding a new venue in the town, bosses said: “We have made the very difficult decision to close Sundowners.

“Unfortunately, due to pressures outside of our control, we are unable to continue.

“We will be partying through Halloween and our final night will be in November.

“We would like to thank all those that have shown their support to us and the venue over the last 12 months, our customers, staff, entertainers and suppliers. We look forward to working with you all in the future.

“Proud Pink Inns will continue and very soon we will release details of our next venue. We will be remaining in Margate, our home, and continue providing a safe space for our community and allies.”

Reaction to the news has been one of sadness, though there is optimism regarding a potential new watering hole nearby.

Mick Eagling wrote: “It's very sad but sometimes we need to move on.

“Proud Pink Inns will very soon be in a position to announce details of the new venue in Margate.”

Allan Jay added: “Very sad to read this, been performing here for years and enjoyed every minute so sad to see it close its doors.”

It has been a tough year for Mr Maxstead, with battles with the council overshadowing his time in charge of Sundowners.

In August, the Proud Pink Inns boss took aim at rules preventing him playing outdoor background music – pointing out nearby Dreamland was allowed to do so.

He had launched a bid for a single speaker on his Terrace Deck above the Marine Drive shelter in Margate – but the local council recommended it be rejected.

Mr Maxstead said the rules are “unfair” given that Dreamland, situated next to Margate’s train station and residential block Arlington House, can regularly host huge concerts, festivals and other events.

Thanet District Council’s environmental health team objected to the application after officers stressed music “would result in significant harm by virtue of disturbance to nearby residential neighbours that would be unacceptable”.