A POPULAR Hereford bistro is to be taken over and be given a new name. 

Gilbies, which is tucked away off Commercial Street in the centre, closed its doors last October.

At the time, it was run by Rob Stead and his wife Hayley, who took over in 2016. 

However, they said that the combination of Covid, ill health, the rising cost of suppliers and utilities, along with the declining footfall to the city, left them with little choice but to close the business. 

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But locals will be pleased to learn that Gilbies will be back open from March 1 - with the new name, 2 Bridges. 

It will be run by Mickey Provis and William Chambers, who were the ex-tenants and chefs of the Bridge, Michaelchurch Escley, and the Bridge Inn, Kentchurch, respectively. 

Sharing the news on the Gilbies Bar & Bistro Facebook page, Mr Chambers told people to 'brace themselves for a culinary journey like no other'. 

"Get ready to indulge in mouthwatering food with a continental flair, featuring tantalising tapas dishes and sharing plates. And that's not all - every Sunday, you can saviour the flavours of live-fire cooking, adding a touch of excitement to your dining experience."

Gilbies was started by Kevan and Bettina Gilbert in 1988.

The city centre bar and restaurant soon had a large following of regulars keen to sample the sustenance inspired by the Mediterranean and beers from around the world.

The well-established business was first put on the market with commercial agents Sidney Phillips for a free of tie lease of £68,500 in 2021.

But the asking price was reduced the following year to £55,000.