A popular vintage tea room has announced it is closing next week amid ‘mounting losses’.
The announcement that the much-loved tea room at Damhouse in Astley, Wigan, has come as a shock to the community, with residents saying they are ‘saddened’ by the news.
A notice on the venue’s Facebook page on Wednesday afternoon explained how the businesses is ‘no longer sustainable’ in it current form.
It said: “The Morts Astley Heritage Trust is disappointed to announce that its much-loved Tea Room will close on the evening of Thursday 23rd January 2025. The current economic situation and downturn in trade over recent months has resulted in mounting losses. Despite the efforts of the trustees and the staff, they have reached the point where the Tea Room business in its current operating model is no longer sustainable.
Those behind the business say the tea room is ‘no longer sustainable’
“The Trust is very much aware of the value of Damhouse to the local community as a social hub. It will continue to offer itself as a venue, albeit without the Tea Room, to its many users, its tenants, and the Woodland Nursery. It is doing its utmost to protect the welfare of the staff who will lose their jobs despite their hard work and dedication.
“Our immediate steps are to support our staff during this difficult stage, then a time to reflect and plan for any future services Morts Astley Heritage Trust will provide to the community.”
Margaret Hughes, chair of the trust, said: “We all, as voluntary trustees, feel very sad that we find ourselves with no alternative but to close the Tea Room. We hope the community will rally round to support Damhouse, which will continue to offer itself as a venue for local events and other communal functions.
“If we can find a means of providing a viable catering facility in the future, we will, but it will need the full support of the local population.”
Dozens of people have already shared their dismay over the closure, describing it as ‘extremely sad news’.
Commenting on the post, one said: “So sad to read this, such a lovely asset to the Damhouse and it always appeared to be busy. My thoughts are with all those who will be affected.”
Another said: “Very sad news indeed. We’ve only recently found it, it’s a little secret gem with a fabulous history.”
The hospitality industry is facing one of its toughest periods to date.
Only last week we reported how Slattery in Whitefield, an iconic bakery and tearoom, issued a stark warning to its customers, telling customers that ‘no one is safe’ amid the rising costs crippling businesses. They told their followers on Instagram that the combined challenges they are now facing are ‘the worst we’ve ever experienced’ in 57 years of business.