A POPULAR Worcester restaurant is closing after being open for a quarter of a century.

Nick and Chrissy Hunt opened Saffrons Bistro on New Street in 1995 and have been a popular fixture on the local dining scene ever since.

But, after 25 years in the business the Hunts are leaving the bistro behind and moving on to the next chapter of their lives.

In a statement on the Bistro's Facebook page the pair wrote: "So it’s time for 15 New Street to move on to the next part of its journey.

"We’ve been lucky enough to be custodians of this beautiful place for the last 25 years and we have loved playing a part in the history of a building that has so many tales to tell and has created some great memories.

"A big thank you to our wonderful customers for your support and loyalty over the years and of course to our amazing staff for being a part of the ‘Saffrons family’ and for your energy, enthusiasm and talent.

"We are so sad that we haven’t had the chance to say a final farewell but we will leave with the memories and friendships created on our little journey which will never be forgotten.

"We’ll miss you all."

The post has over 200 comments from people sad to see 'the end of an era' and sharing their special memories of dining in the bistro.

What will replace the bistro is not yet known.