PUNTERS have been left “gutted” after an iconic restaurant confirmed that they will shut their doors for the final time immediately.
The Windrose bar and restaurant, located in Carrickfergus, Co Antrim, blamed “increasingly difficult” conditions in hospitality for the decision to shut the venue.
The popular bar has been situated at Rogers Quay in the coastal town for 22 years and boasts panoramic views of Belfast Lough.
The venue was famed for its rustic bistro style food and had hosted a variety of events like birthday parties, anniversaries and weddings.
Owner Gary Callaghan said he made the decision to close the long-standing business with “deep regret and sadness”.
Taking to social media, he said: “Conditions in the hospitality industry have made it increasingly difficult over the last number of years causing us to take this decision.
“We would like to thank all our staff, past and present, for their dedicated service over the past 22 years.
“Finally, thank you to all our loyal customers over the years!”
Customers dubbed the closure an “end of an era” and thanked Gary for giving the community “many wonderful years”.
And the heartbroken owner admitted that the outpouring of support over the last 24 hours has been “totally overwhelming”.
Gary said: “We would like to thank everyone for their kind comments on our FB page and texts and calls of support. The last 24 hours have been totally overwhelming.
“Over the last 22 years we have as a family put our life and sole into making the Windrose an inclusive venue for everyone! We may not have always got it right but we tried.
“Despite rumours of apartments and all sorts of things this would not be the way we would want the Windrose to end up.
“At this moment we honestly do not know what will happen with the Windrose, our primary concern is our staff and helping them find alternative employment.”
He added: “We will be holding a management meeting on Saturday to discuss these issues.
‘SAD LOSS’
“In the meantime we are in the process of paying our staff and suppliers in full. Thank you for your overwhelming support.”
The business has confirmed that anyone with a gift voucher will have it “redeemed in full” if they get in touch to arrange a refund.
Devastated customers rushed to the comments to pay tribute to the restaurant, with one saying: “If you don’t use your local hospitality businesses you lose them. Very sad it’s a lovely venue.”
Another added: “I’m very sorry to hear that. My favourite bar restaurant in Carrickfergus and not least for the loss of people’s jobs. Best of luck everyone for the future.”
A third said: “It will be a sad loss for Carrickfergus.
“Loved The Windrose lovely staff and great view of the boats at the marina on a sunny day. You will be missed.”
A fourth added: “Sorry to hear this Gary. Knowing you I’m sure this decision wasn’t taken lightly.
“Both my sons had their wedding receptions at the Windrose and I was a visitor for meals on a number of occasions.
“It was a fantastic location for both. I wish you well in your next business decision.”