CLUBBERS were devastated by the news of the closure of Colchester’s main nightclub.

ATIK confirmed the nightclub, in High Street, would close for the final time on June 3.

Andy Starr, who is the chair of Colchester Pubwatch, said the group was “very sad to learn that this iconic city centre venue is to close”.

He added: “Our thoughts go out to the ATIK team and their guests who will obviously be devastated.

“The loss of any venue in our city affects us all. We hope it will rise again.”

Gazette: Closing - Atik, in High Street, ColchesterClosing - Atik, in High Street, Colchester

Hundreds of disappointed revellers shared their sadness after the Gazette confirmed the news of the closure on social media yesterday.

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Commenting online, one Gazette reader said: “I would like to thank the management and staff of ATIK for supporting a local charity for adults with learning disabilities by enabling them to have a nightclub experience like [everyone else].

“Our members constantly talk about their special nights at ATIK and all are very sad it is closing.”

Another added: “End of an era. Had some really run nights in there with lots of fond memories.”

The tributes continued, with one saddened reader commenting: “I am surprised as there is always a queue outside and considering more and more places are becoming entertainment. They should have a normal bar on the ground floor.”