Fans of an award-winning Worcestershire restaurant will have to wait a little longer for it to reopen.

The Venture In, in Ombersley, has been closed since April as a major refurbishment takes place.

It was due to reopen in December, with the much-needed work nearing completion despite the challenges of renovating a building that dates back to 1430.

But an update from the restaurant on social media has revealed that anyone hoping to enjoy a meal at the Venture In before Christmas will be disappointed.

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The post on Facebook said: “To all our customers, here’s a quick update with regards to the refurbishment of the Venture.

“Due to a couple of unforeseen setbacks, we will unfortunately not be opening until the New Year.

'It'll still feel like the Venture Inn'

“We very much look forward to seeing you in 2023.”

The message was met with replies from customers saying the setback was a shame but that they knew the reopening would be worth the wait.

The Venture In holds two AA rosettes and has entries in both the Michelin and Good Food Guides.

Last month, speaking to the Worcester News, chef proprietor Toby Fletcher gave a few clues as to what to expect when the Venture does reopen.

“It’ll still feel like the Venture In but it’ll be a fresher, more vibrant version of it,” he said.

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“During Covid, for social distancing we moved two tables into the bar area and we’re going to stick with that in our new bar - we’re not going to replace the old sofas we used to have there.

“It’s a bit daunting, the prospect of getting back behind the stove after some time off but I’m looking forward to it - the new kitchen looks fantastic and is going to be really conducive to producing great food.

“We can't wait to pick up where we left off.”

Mr Fletcher also paid tribute to landlord the Ombersley Conservation Trust, which has paid for the renovation work.

“There had been no investment in the restaurant for a long time but the landlords have gone above and beyond really,” he said. “They’ve done a great job.”