A MUCH-LOVED seafront institution has closed its neon-lit doors.

Woodies Longboard Diner, in Kingsway, has closed down after 14 years of bringing pancakes, burgers and Americana to hungry diners.

A message from the owners on the website thanked “wonderful friends and loyal customers” for all the “rock n roll years” but said that the team were moving on to spend more time with their families.

James Roberts who know works at Ocean Sports across the road co-founded the restaurant in 2002. He said: “It was the first American diner in Brighton, that was the idea.”

A message on the diner’s website yesterday read: “It’s goodbye folks from Woodies.

“It is with a heavy heart we have decided to close."

The highlights of the diner’s years in business included a best burger recommendation from The Times newspaper, and serving music legends Brian May and Sir Paul McCartney.

The message concluded: “We would like to thank Mike our long standing head chef, our hard working staff and of course our wonderful friends and loyal customers.”

In its heyday diners could enjoy a film-set style experience with 1950s and 1960 American memorabilia, including a “walk don’t walk” sign, classic checkerboard decor and a neon sign outside.

Those feeling extremely hungry, or brave, could take on the “Man Vs Woodies” burger challenge. If you managed to get through a 48oz mountain of prime beef with all the trimmings, the meal was free.

They enjoyed a strong 4-star rating on Tripadvisor, coming in at number 19 of Brighton and Hove’s more than 180 restaurant on the website.

The owners have assured anyone with an outstanding voucher that it will be fully refunded, those with vouchers should contact them at info@woodiesdiner.com.

This is in stark contrast to another recent restaurant closure in the city. When Jimmy’s World Foods closed its doors with no notice this summer those with bookings and those with vouchers were left without even a contact phone number.