THE heartbroken owner of a highly rated city cafe has spoken of her "deep sadness" after revealing it will be closing its doors for good next month.

Laura Kavanagh, who runs G&Tea in Friar Street, revealed that it is no longer viable to keep the vintage tea room open after food costs tripled due to the cost of living crisis.

She said despite the business's popularity, it has been hard to keep afloat with rising food costs and energy bills.

She said: "We've tried everything to make it work, and even though we're busy most of the time, it just isn't enough with the rising cost of food and energy bills.

"Some of our food costs have tripled.

"It's unfortunately just not viable anymore.

Worcester News: The staff from G&Tea in Worcester. The staff from G&Tea in Worcester. (Image: G&Tea)"It's a huge shame for Friar Street to see so many of us go as it's such a beautiful street.

"We are so grateful for everyone's kind messages, it's taken the edge off the deep sadness we feel knowing that G&Tea is so loved.

"We will miss everyone so much."

The cafe's last day of serving will be Saturday, May 11.

The staff is urging their customers to contact them as soon as possible so they can use up their vouchers. 

The business will also be open on Sunday, May 5, for just voucher bookings to ensure people have used their afternoon tea vouchers before the closure. 

It also offers afternoon tea takeaways on which customers can now use the vouchers too.

Ms Kavanagh added: "We've got in touch with most of the bookings after this date now.

"If we haven't managed to get in contact with you, we will continue trying.

"Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts to everyone who has supported us over the years.

"We wouldn't have made it this far without you."

G&Tea has been a popular cafe in Worcester and has continually ranked in the top ten for restaurants in the city on Tripadvisor.

The cafe was also awarded the Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice Award in 2023.