READERS have been left saddened after one of Carlisle's most-loved restaurants announced its closure.

Staff shortages and spiralling energy and food costs have been blamed for the closure of Adriano's.

The Roman villa-style restaurant at Rickergate, opposite the Civic Centre, has been run by Franco Bertoletti - the man credited with opening the city's first licensed Italian restaurant in the 1970s - for the last 17 years.

He said: "With one chef and myself, I felt I had to close. 

“It’s a fantastic business. But I’m 76 and the pressure in the catering industry is something you have to work with to understand.”

Mr Bertoletti said he used to pay £900 for gas per month but it is now £3,000. Food prices have also increased.

Adrianos closed on May 22.

News & Star reader Anna Carroll said: "That's really sad to hear.

"Had some great party nights here with my Year 6 school children. Many happy memories made."

Helen Winder added: "Sad to see the place close, we have had some lovely meals at your restaurant over the years.

"Wishing you all the best for whatever the future holds for you!"

Rhonda McWilliams said staff past and present had done the restaurant proud. She added: "Enjoy your retirement."

Jeanette Maria Whalen described it as one of the best restaurants in the town, saying: "It is really sad.

"This is just going to be one of many businesses that will choose to close their doors as the costs of energy are not sustainable."