WORCESTERSHIRE'S only Michelin Star restaurant is closing due to "inflationary and interest rate pressures".

Pensons, at The Netherwood Estate, in Tenbury Wells, will be closing its doors after dinner service on Friday, December 22.

It is the county's only permanent Michelin Star restaurant - though Carters of Mosely has opened a temporary Michelin Star restaurant in Offenham, near Evesham until December.

A newsletter was sent out by the restaurant confirming the closure to disappointed customers stating the financial strains as the reason.

The statement said: "Ultimately, persistent inflationary and interest rate pressures means that as a small, independent, very rural business, it is no longer financially viable to stay open.

"We are deeply grateful to you all for supporting us over the last five years. We have loved your company, valued your friendship and hope you have some delightful memories of us."

The statement also said how proud the staff of Pensons were for what they achieved at the restaurant. 

It said: "As a team we are incredibly proud of everything we have achieved over the last five years, from the quality of the food and service, to the collaborations with local producers and artisans.

"We aimed to showcase everything that is wonderful about this area and raise the national consciousness of this small corner of the country.

"But most of all, we wanted to bring people together to enjoy the conviviality of a shared love of wonderful food and wine in beautiful surroundings."

Despite the upcoming closure, the restaurant is still available to book and there are also rooms available for an overnight stay.

If customers have made a reservation for a date after Friday, December 22, the reservations team will be in touch to discuss options.

If you have a valid gift voucher, the restaurant is urging customers to book before Friday, December 22.

Carters at Westlands, in Offenham, also has a Michelin Star, but the location is temporary for the business, until that Tuesday, December 31.

Several other locations across the county are mentioned in the Michelin guide, including Black & Green in Barnt Green, Eckington Manor, The Inn at Welland and the Butcher's Arms in Eldersfield. 

We have contacted Pensons for more information on the upcoming closure.