THE owners of a long-established Whitehaven restaurant say they are ‘truly devastated’ by the venue’s sudden closure.

Casa a Roma, an Italian restaurant on Queen Street, ceased trading ‘with immediate effect’ on Friday. Signs have been placed in the windows of the restaurant, announcing the closure.

A notice of obligation has been served by Court Enforcement Services which states the goods inside the building must be collected by March 29.

The Casa a Roma takeaway shop on Tangier Street, which was launched last year, remains open.

Whitehaven News: Casa a Roma in Whitehaven has ceased tradingCasa a Roma in Whitehaven has ceased trading (Image: Newsquest)

A statement posted on the Casa a Roma Facebook page said: “As most of you know by now, we have ceased trading on Friday. This was taken out of our hands when this decision was made.

“We whole heartedly thank you for the support over the years we have been in business. We are thankful for the staff who have supported us through the years and are truly devastated.

“For those who have vouchers these can be used in the takeaway shop on Tangier Street but will be collection only. From us all at Casa, thanks again.”

Chris Hayes, mayor of Whitehaven, said: "It's sad. The guy who ran it and his family were lovely. It was very busy all the time. It's such a shame.

"I hope somebody else takes it over because it's our only Italian restaurant in town."