The closure of a popular chocolate café after 15 years will be a ‘massive loss to the town’.

Ramsbottom’s famous Chocolate Café has closed its doors for good having fallen victim to the cost of living crisis.

The company announced the closure on social media saying that they were hit at ‘both ends’ with decreased footfall and increasing bills making it ‘unsustainable’ to remain trading.

A statement on the cafe's social media reads: “I've been avoiding writing this post, as it means the end and I've been unsure if I've had the strength.

“But with the heaviest of heart and tears rolling in my eyes, we must announce we are closing.

“It's not new news that hospitality is on the brink of collapse and despite every effort we just can't continue.

“The cost-of-living crisis is hitting us at both ends, our much-loved customers have less in their pockets and goods and energy have increased by 40% and in some cases doubled.

“It's just not sustainable.

“Our team have done some wonderful things and I'm so proud of what you have done and despite our online business growing at an incredible rate, it’s just not enough to support the hospitality side of our business.”

The doors to the café, on Bolton Street, have already closed for good but the website will remain open until Wednesday and gift vouchers will be honoured until then.

The statement added: “We are exploring ways to keep the chocolate business alive but for now it's goodbye. I'd like to thank the wonderful staff, I'm heartbroken for you and our suppliers, and our amazing customers.”

It is unclear whether the recently opened Rawtenstall shop will face the same fate or whether it is just the Ramsbottom site that has been affected.

The chocolate café had been trading in the town for 15 years and was well-loved, with people travelling for miles to get their chocolate fix.

Customers commenting on the social media post have said it will be a 'massive loss to Ramsbottom'.