A popular cafe in Ashton which customers say they have been 'raving about' has made a shock announcement that it closed over the weekend.

The Allotment Cafe, situated in Woodend Mill on Manchester Road in Mossley, has been highly regarded by locals from far and wide for its home-baked goods, breakfasts and sandwiches. 

The cafe had only recently under new management nine months ago, in September last year.

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However, bosses said in an announcement on Sunday (June 9) that the cafe is "closed until further notice".

Bosses said the decision was "sad" and an "unavoidable" outcome, citing staffing and high energy costs making it "impossible to continue".

The full announcement read: "Sorry to be the bearer of bad news but The Allotment Cafe is closed until further notice.

"The decision was not made lightly, but sadly, it's unavoidable.

"Thanks to our customers for all your support over the years, we're immensely grateful to have been part of the Mossley community."

Several customers have since taken to social media to express their sadness with the news with many writing they are "gutted" and "sad" to see such a "great place" go.

Lynne Pearson wrote: "Gutted, we only just found you recently and have been raving about you."

Alison Shakeshaft added: "So sorry to hear this news. It's always been a great place to visit."

Meanwhile, Orla Wrigley said the cafe has been a "special place for us for a long time".

Speaking to The Oldham Times, the owner of the cafe said: "I've had the cafe since August 2018.

"The staffing, maintenance, supplies, energy costs and VAT have all contributed to make it impossible to continue.

"We've had lots of support from our customers which we really appreciate.

"But despite being busy, we weren't able to make it work."

Got a story? Email me Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk