A POPULAR Colchester restaurant has decided to close its doors "until further notice" due to the new Government coronavirus restrictions.

Bambu Vietnamese, in Quayside Drive, Hythe, will not be reopening after lockdown ends next week, it has been announced.

The restaurant said the decision had not been made lightly, but the new strengthened three tier system means the best option was to close.

In a letter to customers posted on Facebook the restaurant said: "To all customers. In light of the latest Government announcements and what’s anticipated of the new restrictions we have decided to close Bambu until further notice.

"This is a decision that has not been made lightly as we will miss you all dearly and don’t want to stop providing our service to you.

"However, as a business we think it’s the best option to choose.

"We are looking at this as though it is a long Christmas break for all the staff.

"This has been a tough year for all and we hope that next year we can come back safer and stronger.

"Your support has been incredible, we honestly couldn’t thank you enough.

"We will keep you updated on our future plans. For the meantime we want to wish you all well. Keep safe and look after yourself."

Visit facebook.com/BambuVietnamese.