Yet another North East restaurant has been forced to shut its doors as the cost of living crisis continues to bite.
Options of Norton in Norton High Street has left its customers devastated after announcing the sudden closure on Tuesday.
The family-run venue, which had become a popular spot on Teesside, had been known for serving up a mix of food and drink and had amassed largely positive reviews.
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But announcing the closure, bosses said they could not continue due the "rising operational costs" hitting the business.
In an emotional post, they said: "We would like to inform you all that due to rising operational costs and personal matters that Options of Norton is now closed.
"We would like to thank all of our wonderful current team Options for being so loyal and supportive.
"Also the wonderful customers who have supported us from day one and wish you all the best for the future.
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"We have made some wonderful friends who will be never forgotten. Thank you all."
The sad news was met with devastation from loyal customers and diners.
One person said: "So sorry to hear this, one of our favourite local places to eat. Good luck to you."
Another said: "We loved your Sunday dinners, gutted for the company and all of the staff xx."
This closure follows in the steps of dozens of others across the North East in recent weeks as unmanageable bills hit businesses hard.
Earlier this month, Sydney's in North Yorkshire informed its customers of their closure.
They said: "The horrific economic impacts of the COVID pandemic and the crippling unforeseen cost of living crisis (rent rises of 17 percent, energy bill rise of 50 percent, food and drinks costs rise 30-50 percent, staff wages up 30 percent, and overall sales down 35 percent) have taken over like a tsunami and have made it impossible for us to carry on.
"In another time and under different circumstances we would have remained a permanent fixture in the community that is so dear to our heart."
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