A BRADFORD restaurant recognised for its quality of food has sadly announced it is closing its doors.

The Waterside Restaurant and Bar, on Wharf Street, Shipley, announced yesterday on Facebook that it closing due to "lasting effects of Covid and rising energy and produce costs".

In an initial post about the closure, a spokesperson for the Waterside said: "Sadly this is a post we never wanted to write, unfortunately we have reached the end of the road for the Waterside.

"Thank you to all our customers for your support."

A post on Facebook included the following statement. It read: "It is with great sadness that we are announcing the closure of Waterside Restaurant from the end of tonight's service.

"As a small family business, it was our dream to succeed, however, the lasting effects of Covid so closely followed by the cost of living crisis and rising energy and produce costs, unfortunately, means the restaurant is no longer viable.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff past and present and every single customer for supporting us on our journey. We couldn't have got as far as we have without you.

"For anyone with a future booking, Ian will be getting in touch with you in due course.

"Ian, Paul and the whole Waterside team."

Waterside, run by Ian Johnson and his son-in-law Paul Huddleston, who was also the head chef, was a Shipley eatery which overlooked the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and had only just celebrated its seventh anniversary.

It was awarded the prestigious Gold Seal in this year’s Good Food Awards.

It was recognised in the community for its quality of food, and customers took to social media to express their sadness about the closure of the restaurant.

One customer said: "So sad to hear this. You were one of the jewels in Saltaire’s crown and will be sadly missed. Good luck with whatever comes next.

"Oh NOOOOOOOOO your food has always been so wonderful," said another customer. "Flavoursome and local...am depressed!"

Sorry to hear this," added another. "Had some lovely times with you. All the best with whatever comes next."