Rick Stein confirms closure of two restaurants

The Rick Stein restaurant group has confirmed the permanent closure of two restaurants.

The group, established by Rick and Jill Stein more than 45 years ago, has said its restaurants in Marlborough, Wiltshire; and in Porthleven, Cornwall; will not reopen.

Messages posted to the restaurants' social media pages said: "Thank you to all of our customers who have supported us. We hope you will find your way to our other restaurants, where perhaps we can share fond memories."

The group continues to operate 12 sites across Cornwall, Dorset, Hampshire and London. The sites are accepting bookings from 4 July, the date the prime minister is expected to confirm the reopening of hospitality businesses this week.

Shortly after Covid-19 closed restaurants in March, Jack Stein, chef-director of the group, described the challenges his and other seasonal businesses would be facing in emerging from this crisis.