A popular Oswestry eatery will close next month after its owner was forced to find new premises.

After almost a year spent trading from a serving hatch inside the the kitchen of The George pub on the Bailey Head, the Italiano Vero lunch counter, run by Enrico Vittone, will close on October 31.

The pub will be run by new management who are to take over the running of the kitchen, where meals will be prepared for customers.

The premises are to be fully refurbished, meaning Mr Vittone has to vacate by November 1.

Mr Vittone has identified alternative premises on Cross Street where he hopes to establish the town’s first Trattoria – a relaxed and rustic-style Italian restaurant.

He had hoped to retain his kitchen on the Bailey Head until the Trattoria had opened, but will now have to stop trading in the interim.

Mr Vittone said: “It is disappointing that I’ve not yet been able to secure a new venue for the Trattoria before I move out.

“Obviously, this means I’ll miss out on a busy period in the run-up to Christmas with Italiano Vero, but I’m staying positive.

“I’ve always dreamed of opening a Trattoria and I think once we open in Oswestry, people will really enjoy the experience.” Traditionally Trattorias are family-owned, rustic neighbourhood eateries found throughout Italy, which serve fresh and unassuming regional food.

He added: “It may be optimistic, but if I can get this new place on Cross Street, I’m hoping I can be up and running by the second week of December – we’ll have to see.”