ONE of the town's most popualr nightclubs has been handed another lifeline just days after its previous manager announced it had closed.

Revellers who frequently visit the After Dark club have faced months of uncertainty after an initial bid to demolish it and turn it into flats was denied.

In fact, a petition was launched by punters demanding Reading Borough Council refused to allow the club to be closed down.

And the club's former manager, Neil Richards, confirmed on social media last week that his time at the hotspot had come to an end, sparking fears the After Dark would be shut down for good.

However, it is understood that three people have paid to lease the club for a further 12 months.

Marie-Claire Peterson, from Caversham, posted on Facebook: "As of Monday keys to The Legendary After Dark Club that celebrates the best of the 80's,90's and 00's are ours!

"We will be open end of September.

"Me, Z and Hash have 12 months to save it, have fun and make money."

The news sparked a wave of excitement amongst revellers.

Mike Rushworth said: "This is awesome. You will smash it. They couldn't have picked a better person."

Ms Peterson has been approached for a comment.

More follows.