A FAMILY restaurant in Colchester town centre has closed within two years.

Hudson and Hudson, off North Hill, was launched by Rosie Mitchell-Hudson in December 2013 as an eaterie, delicatessen and wine seller.

It shut its doors suddenly on Sunday.

Miss Mitchell-Hudson issued a statement, but declined to disclose any further details.

It said: “It is with great disappointment and huge regret we are closing Hudson and Hudson for the foreseeable future.

“It has been the most wonderful year and seven months and we are terribly sad to have to close.

“Many new friends have walked through our doors, and we leave with many fond memories.

“Thank you ever so much for your support and patronage.

It may not be the end, but for now we must say goodbye.”

The restaurant began after Miss Mitchell-Hudson's father,abuilder, spotted the potential of the building and asked her if she wanted to run it with him.

The family, who live on a farm in Ardleigh, have run a number of bars in and around Colchester for years ,including Waffles and Trotters.

Local produce wasakey part of the Hudson and Hudson ethos, with everything made from scratch.

Many well-wishers left messages on the restaurant’s Facebook page since the closure was also announced.

Celine Peronnet-Marsh wrote: “Absolutely gutted!

We’ve had many wonderful meals in your gorgeous restaurant. You’re actually the only place my fussy youngest daughter would try anything new! Wishing you all the best and hoping you’ll be back."

Lisa Sullivan wrote: “Ican't believe it. We thoroughly enjoyed visiting for lunch. So sad another good place to eat taken from us,aplace that was not a chain, that sold good, wholesome food, freshly cooked. So sad.”