FANS of Oldswinford restaurant The Retreat have reacted with sadness at the news it will not re-open as lockdown lifts.

Owner Wayne Colbourne posted on Facebook on May 8 to inform loyal customers that the popular wine and tapas bar in Hagley Road would not be welcoming them back as venues start to open up again.

A post on the restaurant's page said: "After the turbulent year we have all been through we have made the decision we will not be reopening.

"We thank everyone for the support and will no doubt see you all around. Best wishes Wayne and Sarah."

Supporters told of their sadness at hearing the news.

One said: "Awww this is so sad. Such a shame. We have had some great times, lovely meals and lots of laughter in the Retreat."

Another said: "Such sad news. It’s been really tough for so many businesses over the last 14 months or so. Wishing you all the best."

And another added: "So sorry to hear this. We were so looking forward to coming back. It’s been such a rubbish year for so many businesses."

One poster said it was "heartbreaking" to hear, and another described The Retreat as their "favourite restaurant in Stourbridge".

As well as tough year due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, 2019 had seen the restaurant fined after hygiene failures were discovered during an inspection a year earlier.

Mr Colbourne maintained a zero food hygiene rating awarded after environmental health inspectors visited was due to administrative errors and the eaterie was subsequently awarded a top five star rating after it was re-inspected in July 2019.

But Mr Colbourne and co-owner Dean Foxall pleaded guilty to nine offences under food hygiene regulations at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court in September 2019 and both were hit with court bills of more than £1,000 each.

Council chiefs, however, praised the restaurant on subsequently achieving the top food hygiene rating and loyal customers widely backed the venue.

Mr Colbourne has been contacted for further comment.