A popular Romford nightime hotspot has suddenly closed but owners say it will reopen as a family friendly venue.

After eight years, the owners of The Brickyard, in South Street, Romford, announced on social media that the venue was closing immediately.

Owner Terry Phillips wrote: “I’m am sad to say that the Brickyard is now closed and will be opening up as a family restaurant but a big thank you to everyone who has helped me and my family over the last 8 years and all our customers, love Terry.”

The sudden closure has shocked fans of the venue, including customers who have paid deposits and bought vouchers for future events.

On Twitter, the restaurant said that any outstanding deposits will be refunded.

On its website, the nightclub and restaurant bills itself as “one of Essex’s greatest nightspots.”

It often featured on reality show The Only Way is Essex.

And in 2015, extraordinary footage emerged of a man ambitiously trying to move a fixed concrete boulder outside the bar – for 17 minutes.

The Brickyard has been approached for comment.