Roberts Bar and Club in Essex announces permanent closure

Roberts Bar and Club, in Vineyard Street, Colchester, was established in the 1980s and has been the site of many nights of dancing and celebrations for revellers.

It has only had two owners, with the incumbent having taking charge of the club in 2001.

The venue closed its doors for the final time on Saturday.

In a statement released last week, the owners said the decision to “close our doors for good” was not taken lightly.

“There are many contributing factors as to why we have had to do this, and I’m sure just as much speculation, but we are beyond heartbroken. 

“We’d like to sincerely thank everyone for your valued support over the last four decades, even if you just visited once. 

“A very special thank you to all of the staff and DJs past and present, and also to those who hired for special events and dance / DnB events.” 

The club, which holds up to 500 guests, was listed for sale in October last year for initially £725,000, and was sold, subject to contract, after being reduced to £495,000, according to Rightmove.

Since then, the club continued to host regular events playing charts, pop, RnB, dance, house music and more.

The club has occasionally been subject to break-ins, with Nicholas Doy, 40, of Beach Road in Clacton, forcing entry to the venue in October 23.

Doy forced entry to the club by using a hammer with the aim to steal alcohol.

He was later ordered to pay £250 to the owners and serve a 26-week jail term, suspended for one year. 

Following the announcement of the closure, many clubbers shared their fond memories of the place and expressed sadness at seeing the club disappear.

Castle Ward councillor Amy Kirkby-Taylor shared the residents' sentiment about the closure of the business.

She said: "It's a real shame as the bar had been well established in the city centre.

"It is sad to see such a long-standing institution shut – sometimes it is better to bow out gracefully, and the owners have my full respect in their decision."