ONE of Southend’s landmark alternative clubs is closing down.

The Sunrooms, in Market Place, will close on Saturday, September 21, after 20 years of hosting big-name DJ’s and bands.

Headline acts included Scroobius Pip, who ran his regular night We Are Lizards, as well as DJ Nina Kraviz and four-piece indie rock band Tellison.

Radio 1’s Annie Mac made an appearance as well as electronic duo Chase and Status and indie chart toppers Mystery Jets.

On the club’s Facebook page, the managers thanked clubbers for all their support.

They said: “Well we can confirm the rumors are true! The Sunrooms will be closing on September 21. Massive, massive thank you to everyone involved over the last two decades.

“If the walls in here could talk, they would have some serious stories. Thanks for making it down to party, for your support and the amazing atmosphere you all created.”

Bosses are remaining tight-lipped about the future of the club, but hinted it may re-open under a different guise.

They added: “We can’t say what is happening to the old girl yet, but there is an old saying that goes like this – ‘The King is Dead...Long Live the King!”

Regulars were saddened by the news.

Yasmine Ben-Afia, 21, from Southend, said: “I think I speak for a large number of people when I sayI’m devastated. It has played  ahuge role in my life and the lives of many others, helping to shape and create the thriving underground scene in the town.”

Mikey Glenister, 28, from Southend, added: “Sunrooms was a truly alternative escape from the mundane similarity of Southend’s clubs and chain pubs.

“It was underground, gritty, but always inviting. It’s been the host to so many communities.

“People from all walks of life partying together with no egos or intimidation.”

The venue did have some bad days, notably a high-profile murder in 2009. David Graham, 32, was sentenced to 21 years for the murder of 64-year-old cleaner John Murray.