Two of Thanet’s last remaining museums are to close after more than 20 years.

Ramsgate Maritime Museum and Margate Old Town Museum will close for the final time on Wednesday, October 1, with all operational staff employed by the attractions made redundant.

The closures have been blamed on a decision by Thanet council to withdraw a £100,000 grant to the East Kent Maritime Trust (EKMT), which runs the two museums.

More than 1,000 residents signed a petition earlier this year, calling for the Maritime Museum to be saved.

The council has described the closure as "unavoidable" but Ramsgate ward councillor David Green said he was "disappointed and extremely angry" about its treatment of the Trust.

He said: "Ramsgate’s heritage is its main attraction and years of history has been recorded in the Maritime Museum. If we lose it, it would be a big blow to what the town has to offer."

A statement issued by the EKMT said that “constructive discussions” will continue over the winter.

It is hoped that a new subscription-based group could maintain a coastal and martime heritage offering.

Cllr Roger Latchford, cabinet member for culture and economy, said that Thanet council is committed to exploring "innovative, viable and sustainable solutions" that would allow to visitors to enjoy the "nationally recognised maritime collections".

He added: "We would like to thank the EKMT’s trustees, staff and volunteers for their dedicated service to the community over many years and for the Trust’s pragmatic understanding of our budget constraints and priorities."