A HEREFORDSHIRE diner is set to close as rising costs bite.

Gelatis, a popular American diner in Ross-on-Wye, will be closing its doors for the last time on September 6.

Owner Tina Knapman expressed her sadness over the closure, attributing it to the energy price hike.

""It’s been very hard work and so much fun building my little business but sadly the energy price hike has made it impossible to carry on with bills trebling," she said.

ALSO READ:

Ms Knapman praised her young team of workers for their hard work and dedication, and thanked old and new customers for their support and wished everyone a happy summer holiday.

She also said that a new business will be taking over the shop, but did not provide any further details until permission from the new tenant is obtained.

The closure of Gelatis has garnered numerous comments from customers, expressing their sadness and well wishes to the owner and her team.

Customers shared their love for Gelatis and the fond memories they had at the shop.

Many expressed their disappointment over the closure and mentioned their favorite menu items such as milkshakes, ice creams, crepes, and burritos.

Some people also thanked the business for its support of local schools and charities, applauding their generosity with donations and raffle prizes.

Other customers pledged to visit Gelatis before its closure to enjoy the food one last time.

The news of the closure has left many saddened and concerned about the future of local businesses.

But Ms Knapman shared her hope is that her young workers will go on to have successful careers, carrying the memories and experiences they gained at Gelatis with them.

"We’ve really had a blast working together and serving our lovely customers," she said.