A BAR in Colchester’s High Street has closed with its owner blaming a council “witch-hunt”.

Layer Cake opened last August, but almost immediately attracted complaints from the next door George Hotel.

It said loud music in the early hours had angered guests and was affecting business.

Andy Wheeler, who was running Layer Cake, said: “I have been forced to close after an ongoing battle with the council and police since we opened.

“I would like to thank all the people who have helped me."

For more, see Thursday's Gazette