A POPULAR guesthouse which has become a "fixture in Southend" has closed its doors for the final time following the death of its co-owner.

The Gleneagles Guesthouse, in Clifftown Parade, officially shut yesterday following the death of co-owner, Garry Lowen.

Mr Lowen died last month following a battle with Motor Neuron Disease and his funeral is due to be held this Wednesday at St Mary's Church in Prittlewell.

His wife and business partner, Penny, announced on Facebook the business would closing permanently from yesterday after almost ten years of trading.

She said: “It’s with much regret that after nearly ten years I have decided to close the guesthouse and tearoom.

"Since Garry Lowen became ill with MND I have found it increasing difficult to keep the business going on my own, and now that he has died the time has come to close.

Echo: Closure - The business Closure - The business

“We have met some lovely and fascinating people over the years, both those staying in the guesthouse or customers in the tearoom.

"Some have become good friends and I shall miss our chats on the terrace."

Plans were in place to close the guesthouse and convert it into flats following Garry's diagnosis.

But following his death, confirmation has come of its closure despite planning permission not yet being approved for the conversion. 

Penny added: "Believe it or not there was a covenant on the house that it should not be used a boarding house or hostelry, but as it has been a guesthouse since the 1920's, obviously nobody has minded.

“I would like to thank all our customers both past and present for their valued custom.

"Not forgetting all the staff, we have had over the years, and notably to the current staff for going above and beyond when Garry was unable to take an active roll.”

Opposition leader Tony Cox has expressed his sadness and sent kind wishes to Ms Lowen.

Mr Cox, leader of the Southend Conservatives said: “It is such a shame to see and the business has been a fixture in Southend but I understand she’s had to take the difficult decision.

"She must do what’s best for her and the family.

“My thoughts are with her and the family.

"It has been a successful business which is why the hotel has been there for so long and it has even survived the Covid pandemic."