The unexpected closure of a highly rated pub has sparked sorrow among customers who say its departure has left “a huge gap” in the high street. Bosses of The Providence Inne, a mainstay in Sandgate near Folkestone, suddenly closed the doors for trade without an announcement, leaving many residents puzzled. Situated in a prominent spot, the tavern has served the village for decades, having first obtained an alcohol licence as a George Beer and Rigden premises in 1949. Despite keeping various cider, ale and beer options on its books, the pub’s final day of trading was August 26, with the decisio…