A RENOWNED restaurant has announced that it will close permanently at the end of the October.

Nutters, in Norden, Rochdale, was co-founded by head chef Andrew Nutter's parents, Rodney and Jean, and will shut its doors for good at the end of the week commencing October 19 – after what the team led by chef Andew Nutter said has been an “extremely challenging two years.”

The eatery has won multiple awards over nearly three decades, including listings by Michelin, Harden’s and the now-defunct Good Food Guide.

Given the difficulties presented by the Covid-19 pandemic, the team decided “that the time has come” to call it a day and after closing on October 17, will run for a week of ‘Last Supper’ events as of October 19.

The Bird at Birtle restaurant, a sister to Nutters, meanwhile, will continue to operate as normal.

A spokesperson for Nutters said: “To all our loyal customers, friends, past and present colleagues.

"We are saddened to have to tell you that the time has come – after 28 magnificent years – that Nutters will be closing its doors.

"It had to happen one day and who would have thought when Rodney [Nutter] had the idea all that time ago, what a journey it would be.

"It has been a difficult decision to make but these last two years have been extremely challenging when the hospitality industry has a whole had suffered immensely.

"We wanted to go out whilst we are still at the top of our game and it had been increasingly difficult to do that in these times. Not to mention the fact that Jean [Nutter] isn’t getting any younger and has done such an amazing job throughout this time.

"We will stop trading on the 17th October, which I know will be a disappointment to many. In order to give those of you who want one last dining experience with us we will be doing some ‘Last Supper’ evenings from the 19th October, Tuesday-Saturday. More details to follow on that.

"The Bird at Birtle will continue to operate as normal and vouchers can be used at this venue.

"This has happened very quickly, so please be patient with us as we will be contacting you all individually about your bookings.

"Finally we want to say a massive thank you to all our customers and staff who have shared this journey with us. It’s been an immense pleasure making memories for you all. Love from, Nutters."