Deal Seafront restaurant The Quarterdeck has closed its doors for good this lunchtime.

Bosses announced the news by saying they "couldn't make it work".

In a statement issued last night they said: "It is with great sadness and regret to announce that we will be closing our doors for the final time tomorrow at 12pm.

"On behalf of the entire team at The Quarterdeck, we would like to thank all of our customers for the continued support over the last three years and wish you all the very best."

The venue opened in December 2016 as the Hythe Bay Restaurant and was rebranded last year by owner Turrloo Parrett as the Quarterdeck - offering a more affordable option.

It took the name of the former Deal function venue and nightspot that previously stood there before 'The Deck' was demolished and new properties built in its place.

Mr Parrett said: "There's lots of competition in Deal and many of the restaurants are doing exceptionally."

He says his Hythe Bay brand is "doing exceptionally in Hythe and Dover but I haven't been able to replicate that in Deal.

"One has to be grown up and if it's not working, we accept that" he said.

"I spent a huge amount of money on it - it's probably the best fitted out restaurant in Kent.

"I always like to do things well, like at Eastwell manor in Ashford.

"Certainly I've got the best restaurants in Dover and Hythe, I wouldn't claim that of the restaurants in Deal."

Mr Parrett paid tribute to his staff and says he will fulfil his obligations to his staff, ensuring they are given jobs in his other restaurants or they will be compensated in lieu of pay.

A decision about the future of the Beach Street premises is to be made.

This morning, which was their last day, they opened especially for The Stroke Association whose representatives enjoyed a complimentary visit.

The restaurant closed for good at noon.

Read more: All the latest news from Deal