A POPULAR nightclub in Rayleigh has confirmed it will not reopen this week despite Covid restrictions easing.

The Pink Toothbrush told its customers the firm does not want to risk their "health and livelihoods" and has cancelled its reopening plans for Friday.

The firm said it has come to the decision with a "heavy heart" but felt like it was "the correct thing to do".

In a statement on their Facebook page, the club said: "Unfortunately, the Pink Toothbrush Nightclub will not be re-opening on Friday 23rd July as originally planned.

"Over the last 38 years, our customers and our staff combined have made the Pink Toothbrush the club that you all know and love.

"For that reason, we will not do something that coulde health or livelihoods of those amazing people.

"Unfortunately, whilst the situation remains uncertain, we can't tell you when we will be re-opening. However, we can't wait to have you back really, really soon."

The news comes as all nighclubs across the country were given the green light to reopen today as Covid restrictions in England are removed.

However, Southend’s director for public health, Krishna Ramkhelawon, has urged people to not change their attitude towards the virus, warning the curve of Covid case rates is “steeper than the last wave”.