A popular restaurant and cafe on Ipswich’s waterfront has announced it has closed its doors for good.

Ipswich Star: The owner of the The Grazing Sheep, Rita Clark, has announced its closure. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNThe owner of the The Grazing Sheep, Rita Clark, has announced its closure. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

The Grazing Sheep opened just 18 months ago and has become a favourite among fans of good coffee and home cooked food.

Yesterday, the owner of the eatery, Rita Clark, announced she had decided to close the cafe so she could spend more time with her family.

A statement on the Grazing Sheep’s Facebook page, addressed to its customers, said: “It was always an ambition of mine to create a warm and welcoming place which served fresh and wholesome food.

“Through the Grazing Sheep I was able to share this dream with you.

“Whilst it has been a tremendous experience I will cherish, you may have noticed that I took the difficult decision to close the Grazing Sheep this weekend.

“Our priorities change in life.

“Right now, mine is to spend more time with my family.

“Something which being the owner of the Grazing Sheep made more difficult than I would have wanted.

“It will be truly sad for me to not see you each day as we have done for the past 18 months.

“However, let us welcome the New Year together now.

“An opportunity for fresh beginnings, where new dreams can be created and achieved.”

The restaurant had received glowing reviews since it opened in late 2016.

Everything was made from scratch, except for the bread which came from the Anchor Bakery just over the water, with the majority of ingredients also sourced from Suffolk.

On Facebook, the Grazing Sheep’s loyal customers were sad to hear the news but wished Rita the best of luck in the future.

Helen Thornton said: “My favourite place to lunch in Ipswich.

“Not sure how I’ll survive without the sausage rolls.”

Olwen O’Connor posted: “So sorry to hear this.

“Grazing Sheep was the very best place for coffee and cake in Ipswich.

“It will live on in memory.”

Alexia McEwen added: “Rita, tis a loss for Ipswich.

“Thanks for bringing us The Grazing Sheep and all of its scrumminess.”

Mrs Clark was unavailable for further comment.