A Darlington restaurant that was fined for using illegal workers has closed its doors permanently - citing that running the business was "no longer sustainable".

Rose & Lime Indian Restaurant on Bondgate posted on social media last month to tell its loyal customers that "the stress of the business and its impact has taken a heavy toll on us personally".

Despite posting the message on August 14, and the venue showing as 'permanently closed' on Google, Rose & Lime was listed on the UK government data for using illegal workers. 

Read more: Nine businesses in North East fined for employing illegal workers

The list relates to between January and March 2023 and states that Rose & Lime Ltd were fined £10,000 for the offence but didn't go into any more details.

Alongside the restaurant, eight other North East businesses were listed on the Home Office quarterly round-up of companies that have had penalties issued for the use of illegal workers.

There is no suggestion that the closure is directly linked to the fine handed to Rose & Lime in Darlington - with the statement issued from the venue at the time of its closure saying that the stress of keeping the business afloat was the reason. 

The full statement from Rose & Lime reads: "We, heavy-heartedly, make the announcement that, unfortunately, we have had to close down our restaurant.

"During these past challenging months, we have tried our best to keep the restaurant going, however, it’s just no longer sustainable.

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"The stress of the business and its impact has taken a heavy toll on us personally and we’ve had to make the difficult decision to do what’s best for us next and ’call it a day.’

The statement adds: "We thank our customers for their support and wish you all the best. Also while I’m here, just to say please be kind to small, local businesses, especially those working in the hospitality industry.

"The management and team work tirelessly to provide the best service they can and give you an enjoyable experience every time you visit, most often working long hours.

"The owners are always under incredible stress keeping their business running the best they can; even more so now than ever in these very difficult times.

"Patience and a kind word can just brighten up a difficult shift.

"Thank you once again. And goodbye from us at Rose & Lime."

The Northern Echo approached Rose & Lime for further comment on the closure but had no response via social media messages, email or phone.