The renowned Chocolate Cafe in Ramsbottom near Bury has announced it will close after 15 years.
The devastating news will come as a bitter blow for residents and visitors to the picture-postcard town, home to an annual chocolate festival.
Owner, Philip Hargreaves, announced the news in a heartfelt social media post, saying the cost of living crisis was 'hitting us at both ends'. Goods and energy costs, he said, have increased by more than 40 per cent and 'in some cases doubled'.
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The cafe on Bolton Street, which first opened to acclaim and growing popularity in 2008, was a must for sweet-toothed visitors to Ramsbottom.
It featured everything from bars of chocolate with edible prints laid over the top, chocolate bars loaded with crunchy toppings, chocolate pizzas, boxes of truffles and flavoured chocolate buttons. It also sold 'flat-pack' Easter eggs, available in a range of prints and flavours.
The cafe said its website for orders would remain open until Wednesday next week and gift vouchers would be honoured until then.
The social media post in full read: "I've been avoiding writing this post, as it means the end and I've been unsure if I've had the strength.
"But with the heaviest of hearts and tears rolling in my eyes, we must announce we are closing. It's not news that hospitality is on the brink of collapse and despite every effort we just can't continue.
"The cost of living crisis is hitting us at both ends, our much-loved customers have less in their pockets and goods and energy have increased by 40 per cent, and in some cases doubled. It's just not sustainable.
"Our team have done some wonderful things and I'm so proud of what you have done and despite our online business growing at an incredible rate, it is just not enough to support the hospitality side of our business.
"Our online business will be open till Wednesday, so if you want your last chance to get your favourite chocolate fix, act now. Please!
"We are exploring ways to keep the chocolate business alive but for now it's goodbye. I'd like to thank the wonderful staff. I'm heartbroken for you and our suppliers, and our amazing customers."
Regulars were saddened by the news and posted messages of support.
Gemma Drewitt said on Facebook: "Such sad news devastated for you all. It’s such a lovely cafe always a lovely warm welcome. Good Luck Phil to you and your family xx"
And Kat Heywood posted: "I’m absolutely gutted for you and Ramsbottom. Glad I was able to come in recently and make some more memories. What a shame. I loved how personal it was, always greeted by name. Take care everyone involved! Xx"
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