THE owners of a popular food and drink business in Burnham-on-Sea's Princess Theatre and Arts Centre have revealed why they will leave the venue later this year.

Hellend's Kitchen, run by Carol and Paul Hellend, has been serving the community since being founded in 2019, but will sadly leave the theatre on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

Carol said her business, like many others, has been affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

Read more: Café and bar to leave Burnham-on-Sea theatre later this year 

"I would like to say that our decision was very difficult as we love it at the theatre, but in the last six months, the cost of living as affected everyone and we are no exception," she said.

"With supplies costing more and more, we can’t keep increasing prices, so we decided not to except the extra year contract that we gratefully."

The town council wished Carol and Paul the best for the future.

A spokesperson for Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge Town Council said: "We are very sorry that Hellend’s Kitchen have taken the decision not to renew their lease for the Café and Bar area at The Princess Theatre.

"We would take this opportunity to thank Carol and Paul for their valued support since opening the doors to Hellend’s Kitchen and wish them every success for their future plans."