A popular Hereford bar and bistro has decided to close. 

One of Hereford's hidden treasures, Gilbies, which is tucked away off Commercial Street in the city centre, 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.

However, the Gilberts sold the business in 2016 to former manager Rob Stead and his wife Hayley.

ALSO READ:

Writing on its social media pages, the owners said it was with great sadness that they've made the decision to close.

The post reads: "We've spent seven years serving our wonderful customers, but the combination of Covid, my own ill health, the rising cost of suppliers and utilities, along with the declining footfall to the city, have left us with little choice than to make this devastating decision. 

"We've like to take the opportunity to thank our regulars, our staff and our families for your unwavering loyalty and support.

What are your thoughts?

You can send a letter to the editor to have your say by clicking here.

Letters should not exceed 250 words and local issues take precedence.

"Customers with existing bookings should have heard from us this week, but please get in touch if you haven't."

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 last year to £55,000.