A County Durham restaurant has announced it will be closing its doors this weekend following five years of service.

Clean Bean in Seaham has announced it will be closing on Saturday (September 30) shortly after it celebrated five years of business.

The 'clean eating' restaurant and bar, which is located on North Terrace, called its fifth birthday "bittersweet" and invited customers to join them for one last time.

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The business has been placed up for sale by owners Paul and Linda who have said they are "forever grateful" for the support they have received.

A spokesperson for Clean Bean said: "Over the past four years, we have worked incredibly hard to build Clean Bean into a successful business.

"It is a real part of the Seaham community and landscape, and our number of loyal and returning customers supports this. We have worked with some of the best people in the industry and we are forever grateful for their support, the challenges and many lessons learnt along the way. 

"We wouldn’t be where we are now if it wasn’t for the people who joined us on this journey.

"We have learnt something from everyone and can say that remarkable things are never done by one person. It has taken a talented team of people as passionate about Clean Bean as us.

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"We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved, but also deeply sad to have to let it go.

"However, the sale of the business is paramount not only for our personal happiness but also in the best interest of Clean Bean and our wonderful team of staff."

The business celebrated its fifth birthday on Saturday (September 16), while many residents have been left saddened by the news.

One distraught resident said: "Oh no! You are the only place that considers all dietary needs in your menu. 

"You will be a big miss Linda. Thank you for everything you have done.

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"You were involved in upgrading the quality of eating places in Seaham. See you Saturday evening."

Another disappointed resident said: "Selfishly gutted I'm losing my brilliant morning oasis, but more importantly hope you are moving onto a great new chapter in your life.

"Thanks for everything you've all done."