A popular night-time venue in Maldon High Street is denying under-21s entry after 8.30pm, Nub News has learned.

The OAKhouse, which is open until 1am on Friday and Saturday nights, reportedly began turning away disappointed young adults last Friday (August 18).

It is thought the new rule has been brought in following a change in general management, the first in nearly a decade.

One 19-year-old regular told Nub News of his disappointment at the "shock move".

He said: "I am gutted. Last Friday night, on arrival, I was shocked to be denied entry to OAKhouse due to the new rules.

"This really upset me as I have been coming here for almost two years. I will now have to look elsewhere for other clubs, with the closest option being Chelmsford which is expensive to get to by taxi and the buses don't run late."

OAKhouse is one of the most popular night-time venues in Maldon High Street, alongside Wetherspoons and Ginny's Cocktail Bar. It has also been used to host Plume College's leavers drinks for the past two years, as well as a series of other functions.

The 19-year-old punter added, "Over the last couple of years, I have spent a lot of money here, as well as many of my friends."

"For the rules to just change like this is really disappointing."

However, the rule has reportedly been in force for several years, although it has only recently started to be enforced. A sign in the window of the bar reads: "After 8.30pm, over 21s only - CCTV is in operation".

A spokesperson for OAKhouse has been approached for comment.

Read more

• 'Outstanding' children's nursery relocates to Bicknacre: 'We cater to children's imagination'
• WATCH: Maldon District Councillor reads leaked Burnham Waters email during Surgery debate
• Preparations already underway to make Maldon Christmas Fayre 2023 'bigger and better' than ever