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The once popular anonymous messaging app Secret is shutting down, and will return millions of dollars to its investors.

Co-founder David Byttow wrote on Twitter that "with a heavy heart" he is closing the struggling app, and will take steps to "permanently delete all content and data".

The app went public just a year ago, promising users a place for them to anonymously share their secrets. It first became popular as a way to share gossip from the Silicon Valley startup scene.

It raised millions in funding, including from Google Ventures and actor Ashton Kutcher. But it quickly ran into trouble.

The app was banned in Brazil where anonymous free speech is illegal, while in other markets it started to be overtaken by rivals such as Whisper and Yik Yak.

In a blog post Mr Byttow added: "Unfortunately, Secret does not represent the vision I had when starting the company, so I believe it's the right decision for myself, our investors and our team.

"I'm extremely proud of our team, which has built a product that was used by over 15 million people and pushed the boundaries of traditional social media."