THE owner of a much-loved restaurant in Leigh has announced the business will temporarily close due to “ever increasing costs”.

From Eden, a restaurant and cocktail bar, confirmed the closure over the weekend after a “wave of challenges” but bosses hope it will re-open as soon as possible.

The restaurant, based on London Road, has proved popular in recent years serving everything from quality coffee and vibrant cocktails, to afternoon tea and Sunday lunches.

Bosses highlighted the “ever increasing cost of utilities and supplies” impacting the restaurants finances as the prime reason for the closure.

Owen Cartey, Conservative councillor for the West Leigh ward, has visited the restaurant a number of times and was left saddened by the announcement.

He said: “It is terribly sad to learn this news.

“From Eden is a great local restaurant and I have been to some brilliant fundraisers there.

“I know it is a popular spot for some of Leigh’s dining clubs and hope to see it open its doors again soon.

“The London Road is the longest high street in the UK and home to some brilliant local businesses.

“Southend Council and the Government need to be doing more to support the shops and restaurants that make our community a thriving hub of activity.

“There’s still plenty of work to be done to get footfall back to pre-pandemic levels.”

The announcement on social media sparked an outpouring of sadness from customers, with more than 50 shocked residents leaving comments on the post.

In a statement, bosses said: “It is with a heavy heart I have to inform you of the unprecedented temporary closure of our restaurant From Eden.

“With the ever increasing costs of utilities and supplies significantly impacting our establishment’s overall operation and financial health we have been forced to close.

“Despite our tireless efforts to keep our restaurant thriving in the industry, recent months have brought a wave of challenges that are just impossible to overcome at this time.

“While I stress this is only temporary I will be doing everything in my power to get the restaurant up and running again in the next few weeks “My sincere apologies to everyone who had a booking with us in the next few weeks but we will make it up to you on reopening. Your support and understanding at this difficult time is appreciated.”