A much-loved cafe has been saved after a last-minute bid came through to buy the seaside spot.

Just days after bosses announced its imminent closure, The Bubble Cafe in Whitstable will now remain open under new ownership.

Head chef Diana Lewis told KentOnline how an unexpected offer to buy the eatery on Beach Walk has been accepted, allowing all staff to keep their jobs and operations to continue uninterrupted.

“When I first got the news that it was staying open I was elated,” said Ms Lewis.

“The Bubble is such an iconic place in town so when we said we might be closing people were devastated, but now that we’re staying open everyone is really happy.

“It’s what it deserves because it’s such a special place.”

The Whitstable local added that under the new ownership, due to take over on March 1, a few improvements would be added including a bar with draft beers and ciders.

The eatery also plans to stay open a later for wine evenings and make some slight changes to the menu.

Ms Lewis said: “We’re going to re-do the wine menu, but the coffee, food and the vibe will stay the same - really good brunches and lunches.

“The tweaks to the menu will bring some fresh ideas.

“We will continue to accept dogs.”

For years, The Bubble has been a favourite for breakfasts and lunches, racking up hundreds of five-star reviews.

‘When I first got the news that it was staying open I was elated...’

On February 3, the seaside cafe announced on social media that rising costs had made it impossible to carry on and marked February 29 as the business’ last day.

But to fans’ delight, just a few days later the Bubble announced it would no longer be closing down.

Referencing the eatery’s canine-friendly policy, one Instagram user commented: “That’s great news. The dog and I are already looking forward to our next visit.”