STROUD'S American style eaterie, The Diner, has announced that it will be closing down.

The Nelson Street restaurant, which is run by Tamzin Malleson, specialises in classic American cuisine such as hot dogs, burgers, pancakes, milkshakes and knickerbocker glories.

The announcement was made on social media today in the form of a poem.

It reads: "Alas, The Diner is done!

"Gone is the glory of the knickerbocker,

"No more bananas are to be split,

"The vegan hot dogs are now running free,

"And the cows are having a party on the common."

The post concludes with: "Big thanks to our staff, suppliers and especially our customers big and small for your support and all those amazing DIY sundae creations ."

Ms Malleson, an artist and actor who starred in in Midsomer Murders, Dangerfield and the BBC television show Teachers, opened the restaurant in July 2017.

In October 2017 her partner, well-known actor Keith Allen, took over and co-ran Stroud nightclub the Marshall Rooms, which is located next door to The Diner. The nightclub closed down in October 2018.

Within minutes of the news being shared dozens of people had commented on the post, praising the team for the quality of their food and the friendliness of the venue, and expressing sadness at the closure.

One person summed up the feelings of many, saying: "A great loss to Stroud, but thank you for all the delicious food, and the happy memories."

Another wrote: "So sorry to hear this, always the best burger in Stroud!"

And one commented: "You have done yourselves proud. It was proper fun and delicious. Will miss you."