A POPULAR carvery restaurant is up for sale.

The Old Mother Redcap on Blackburn Road, Oswaldtwistle, just over the Blackburn border, has had a 'For Sale/To Let' sign put up on the side of the building.

It has prompted messages on social media about concerns about the future of the restaurant.

Cllr Glen Harrison, who represents the St Oswald's ward, said: "We have been going there for years and used to go with my dad who lived nearby.

"It is sad especially to see as pubs and restaurants are under more pressure than ever and they closed down before lockdown and have never re-opened.

"I though they would re-open out of lockdown but I don't know if they were making a loss before Covid.

"It is such a shame to see it shut but I would really want it to re-open as soon as possible and think it should stay as a restaurant.

"When it opened as a carvery it was busy and it had a good name and was a great place to eat.

"Places like the Old Mother Redcap are part of our heritage in this country and need them to stay open.

Cllr Harrison added that quick action is needed on the site.

He said: "I am worried about it going into a state of disrepair.

"They need someone to be in there before the bad weather kicks in.

"It will need to have the heating on so it can still operate as a restaurant.

"It is in such a good spot and offered quality carvery food.

"We are wanting to know what is happening with it.

"The Old Mother Redcap is part of the community and people will have happy memories of eating there.

"I am 40 and it was there as long as I can remember."

Stephen Hughes, licensee and founder of the Blackburn and Darwen Pubs (Past and Present) group said: "It’s very sad that the Old Mother Redcap is closed and up for sale as it was previously very popular, especially the carvery.

"However, it was becoming increasingly in need of refurbishment and Covid has obviously had a major impact on trade.

"It’s in a good location and with the right investment and the right quality and prices of food, when the lockdown finishes it could definitely be successful again.

"Hopefully, the site will be purchased to be retained as a pub/restaurant."

What do you think will happen at the Old Mother Redcap? Should it stay as a restaurant? Email robert.kelly@nqnw.co.uk