Less than a week after closing, the bowling alley in the Pentagon has re-opened with a new owner.

A Midlands-based nightclub and bar group has taken over the MFA Bowl UK sports venue following a deal with administrators.

The company Disco Bowl re-launched the business today having shut suddenly on Monday.

The acquisition has been welcomed by one retired couple from Strood who have been playing there for years.

Tina and Dennis Rock turned up on Tuesday to find the place locked up and were concerned because they and their friends had about £700 worth of equipment stored inside.

Tina, 80, of Morland Drive, said: "This is good news. We had made arrangements to go elsewhere, but it would have been more expensive. We shall be back."

Group managing director Pete Terry said:“It's no secret that we had been looking at the MFA Bowl UK estate, but we felt that the problems of the previous company were too great to overcome.

“I read in the paper of people’s concerns at losing the facility and also their equipment and bowls in the premises.

"I'm delighted that we are now back open as normal.

“Our new company can operate with a clean sheet, and looks forward to investing heavily in these nine sites once we have agreed long-term deals with the landlords.

"I’m pleased to announce that all previous bookings will be honoured in full.

“We look forward to making Chatham Bowl a fabulous family destination ready for the summer season and adding to the appeal of this popular facility.”

The manager of the bowling alley, Tracie O'Sheen said: "It's fantastic news on the re-opening of Chatham bowl - looking forward to seeing all our regular and new customers having a great time under our new ownership."