Popular Jersey nightspot ROJO is closing.

In a social media post, the owners say - after 19 years - they are calling it a day.

They say there has been a downturn since the  Covid pandemic, and that rising alcohol prices have made regular nights out a thing of the past.

They also blast the island's 'outdated licensing law' and 'risk adverse' culture, saying that most young people save their money for weekends away, or leave to live elsewhere.

Those still here are pre-drinking before heading to town because its 'simply too expensive to buy a drink'.

"There's been a lot of rumours that Rojo is closing and we’d like to set the record straight. After 11 years on Beresford Street and 8 years on Bond Street we have sadly decided to call it a day. We'll provide a more detailed post at a later date but wanted to let you know that this will be our last Christmas and we'll be announcing early next year a series of closing parties..."

"...Basically everything is stacked against having a vibrant nighttime industry. Most young people choose to save their money and go away for a weekend to destinations in the UK and Europe where there is so much on offer and who can blame them. Young people also pre-drink before coming into town as it’s simply too expensive to buy a drink. That is the young people that are still here - so many are leaving."

They say they hope someone will pick up the baton, or it will 'sadly another great venue lost'.

Closing dates will be announced in the new year, with parties planned to say goodbye.

Rojos was saved from closure in 2021 when a crowdfunding campaign was launched to get it through the Covid lockdown.

Hundreds of islanders have expressed their disappointment at the news, with many reminiscing about nights out at the venue:

"Gutted. So many great nights had at ROJO Bar, Nightclub and Roof Terrace from dancing to awesome dj’s to dj’n there with my brother, Bev & Michelle. Wishing J-P, Phil, Emma and the whole ROJO family all the best for the future. Sad times indeed" - Reeni Manson

"Heartbreakingly tragic - how has Jersey got to this place we where so lucky in the 80s & 90s when Jersey had a soul and was full of life - entertainment seems to be a negative on this island nowadays. A thing to be discouraged, suffocated and avoided - I am exasperated and saddened for you and the business of hospitality and entertainment in the island. It must change otherwise we will turn into a lifeless cultural desert. I feel for the youth of this island who have nowhere to turn. The government must have a part to play in supporting this sector and remove the suffocating and overbearing red tape!! RIP fun Jersey" - Lee Mac

"Wishing you guys all the best for your future whatever you decide to do  Rojo has been here as long as I have and I can certainly say I have had some amazing nights !" -Kattia Beckinsale-Yates