KURSAAL bowling alley will re-open today after a nightclub group came to its rescue.

Midlands based nightclub and bar group, Disco Bowl Ltd, announced the acquisition of nine sites from the collapsed MFA Bowl estate following a deal with administrator, Duff and Phelps.

Phil Duffy, joint administrator at Duff and Phelps, said: "This is tremendous news for the staff and loyal customers of MFA Bowl and we are delighted to have saved some of the most iconic bowling alleys in the south east at Southend, as well as sites in the north west and north east."

Southend Kursaal Bowl and Fantasy Park will be back open as normal to customers from Friday, March 1, and all lost party deposits will be honoured.

Pete Terry, group MD, said: “It's no secret that we had been looking at the MFA Bowl estate before they fell into administration, but we felt that the problems of the previous company were too great to overcome.

“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 was saddened to see the recent news stories regarding the Kursaal, but I’m now proud to announce that we will be reopening this historic building before the weekend.

"Not only am I happy that Perry and his team have agreed to return, I can also announce that we will honour all bookings made at the venue.

“We look forward to preparing the Kursaal to be a fabulous family destination ready for the summer season and adding to the appeal of this popular facility.”

Perry Mountford, complex director at The Kursaal, added: “This is exciting times for Kursaal having an owner that wants to make change and develop the facilities means a lot to the team.

"Having such a grand venue within Southend certainly attracts tourists and visitors to the local area.

"I look forward to operating along side Disco Bars, and see great things coming shortly.”

Disco Bars operate six venues in the midlands and north including the award-winning KIKI Manchester and the Society, Bamboogy and Manhattans brands in Ashby de la Zouch, Leek, Uttoxeter, Bolton and Wigan.

Other MFA Bowls to be saved from the axe include, Nottingham Bowl, Chatham Bowl, and Lewisham Bowl.