The owners of one of Bristol's most renowned restaurants have announced they have closed their doors permanently - because they are too small to open under coronavirus social distancing restrictions.
The small but popular Birch restaurant, in Southville's Raleigh Road, is effectively based in former corner shop, and its intimate, homely setting was one of the reasons people flocked to it from all over the city.
But the size of the restaurant and the restrictions on the number of diners at any one time mean owners Tom Masters and chef Lee Bloomfield have decided they simply can't carry on.
The pair, who worked together at the Seymour Arms in Blagdon before taking on Birch less than two years ago, announced the closure on their social media accounts.
"After much consideration it is with a heavy heart we have decided to permanently close the restaurant," they announced.
"We've been on an incredible journey over the last two years and have loved serving customers and being part of the Bristol food scene.
"Covid-19 and social distancing have changed everything for so many businesses and due to the small size of Birch and the food experience we offer our customers, we no longer think the business is viable.
"We would like to say a big thank you to all our customers, suppliers and most importantly the staff, who we couldn't have done this without," they added.
