The owner of a popular Ipswich pub today paid tribute to his customers after announcing a buyer is being sought for the venue.

The Arboretum, in High Street, shut its doors at the end of last month so gas works could take place.

But with a new business venture under way and the loss of key members of staff, owner Ben Taylor said the time was right to move on.

He said: “We have had some really good times and we have made a lot of new friends.

“I think we have done ourselves proud. Everyone was sad to see us go but it is a new chapter in our lives as far as business goes.”

Mr Taylor, a chef by trade, was at the helm of the Arboretum for three years along with his wife, Anne and head chef and shareholder, Nick Salmon.

Mr Taylor added: “We would like to thank our customers for the last three years. We have had some really good times and hopefully they can carry on enjoying it in our absence.”

A buyer is still being sought but Mr Taylor said there has been interest in the pub.