A restaurant in Congleton has announced its shock closure.

Bench Bistro Bar on Lawton Street has shut with immediate effect.

The decision, announced on Friday (September 26), comes just over a year after its opening.

A Facebook post from the venue reads: "Somethings in life work and somethings don't.

"Unfortunately Bench wasn't meant for Congleton.

"We are closing its doors with immediate effect."

The original Bench Bistro Bar opened in Nantwich in 2018.

Its popularity led to owners Richard and Verity Shaw opening a second branch in Congleton in May 2024.

Bench took over the former Young Pretender, which had been acquired by Punch Pubs just a few months prior.

The pub company stated that £200,000 was spent on transforming the venue, creating a 'bright and colourful' interior.

Following Bench's closure, customers with existing bookings have been told to get in touch via email or by calling the Nantwich venue.

Congleton Nub News has contacted Punch Pubs for further information regarding the future of the unit.