The legendary Revenge nightclub in Brighton has been sold for £1.5 million.

Tony Chapman, owner of what is now the biggest gay venue in the south-east, confirmed he had signed a deal with leisure company Stagfleet Ltd.

The millionaire, who grew up in a council house in Bevendean, is also in the process of selling his £2 million home in Hove as he expands his hotel interests.

Club Revenge in Old Steine has earned a pivotal place in Brighton life since opening in 1991.

It helped build up a gay scene which today injects millions of pounds into the city's economy.

It has become a favourite nightspot for celebrities including comedian and TV presenter Graham Norton.

Rumours of a secret sale have been rife on the gay scene for several weeks.

Mr Chapman said: "We are still going strong and are one of the most profitable clubs in Brighton.

"But I want to get my life back. I've not had a holiday for 12 years. "Of course I am going to miss it but you have to sell when the club is right at the top, when the time is right.

"I just woke up one morning and thought, 'I've had enough'.

"It's time to make way for someone younger to have a go."

Mr Chapman said Stagfleet Ltd would continue to run the club as a gay venue under the name Revenge.

He turned down offers from buyers who wanted to turn it into a mainstream nightspot and has also sought an agreement to keep the same staff.

The club has an annual turnover of £2 million.

Tuesday February 10, 2004