Happier times:Local entertainer Gordon Clarkson outside Westgate Pavilion, which is now threatened with closure

One of Thanet's oldest entertainment venues faces an uncertain future after the building was repossessed.

Thanet council took decisive action against the previous tenants of Westgate Pavilion on Wednesday, after claiming they had failed to comply with the conditions of their lease.

The authority has already started the search for a new leaseholder. It hopes to complete a deal "as soon as possible" to minimise disruption to the various community groups which currently use the venue.

Cllr Simon Moores, cabinet member for customer and regulatory services at Thanet council, said: "This is a popular landmark community venue that is valued and well used by local people.

"The temporary closure of the building is disappointing and is having an unfortunate impact on the many different community groups who currently use it."

Cllr Moores, who is also the ward councillor for Westgate-on-Sea, added: "I'd urge anyone who feels they have the necessary experience to contact the council to allow the building to be re-opened to the public very soon."