The boating community in East London has been left devastated after a popular eatery confirmed it will close this weekend. The Boathouse Café and Bar will bid farewell to Barking on Sunday, August 31 after nine years on the banks of the River Roding.

Owner Derrick Daniel revealed the sad news follows a 'tough winter' and spiralling utility bills that left him with no choice but to shut. The former boxer said he's 'gutted' about leaving it all behind.

Describing his love for the music-minded space, he said: "When I first came to see the place, I walked up the stairs and it's something you can't really explain. I think it's the water.

"It gives everybody this lovely feeling of feeling safe. And it's right there, we're looking at it, it's special I think."

"I love coming into this place e

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