A HUGELY popular local restaurant which was recently up for a major national award is to close down after 15 years.

The owners of Fusion in Gourock have announced that it will be shutting in September.

It comes just weeks after the Hopeton Street premises narrowly missed out on the European Restaurant of the Year title at the 2023 Scottish Restaurant Awards.

Now it will be closing down, much to the shock of its army of customers, who have been praised for their loyalty over the years by its grateful bosses.

A statement from the owners said: "Fifteen years ago, we realised our dream of opening our own restaurant.

"Since then Fusion has been at the centre of our lives.

"It is with greatest sadness that we now inform you that our last day of opening will be Saturday 30 September.

"What remains is for us to thank every single customer who had walked through our Fusion doors in the last 15 years, you have supported our dream and our small business tremendously.

"Our team over the years have been amazing and they have been a huge part of our excellent customer experience.

"Thank you all once again, Mary & Eve."

Greenock Telegraph: Fusion restaurant in Gourock

Over 100 customers have replied with heartfelt messages online saying how much they would miss the long-standing local business, which sits above the town's Victoria Bar.

Elizabeth Higgins said: "So sad to hear this. All our special family occasions are set in Fusion. One of our favourites. You will be sorely missed."

Ann Gray wrote: "So sorry to hear this! A fantastic restaurant that will be missed! Great food fantastic friendly staff!"

Gemma Campbell said: "Absolutely gutted to hear this Had a great time working there and still coming to visit and have amazing food as well two family weddings we also enjoyed in the restaurant."

Carol Kearns wrote: "I'm truly gutted to see this. This was my favourite restaurant never had a bad meal or service in all the years we have been going."

Greenock Telegraph:

Judy Henderson added: "This is awful news, loved Fusion and had lots of family meals there. Good luck to you all for the future."

Mark Anderson declared: "Best restaurant in the west of Scotland! You will be sadly missed!"

William Loughran said: "Sorry to hear that best restaurant in Inverclyde."

Angie Bleasdale stated: "So sad to hear this, had many amazing meals here for our special occasions and service was always excellent."

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Saying that he was 'absolutely gutted', Kevin Hutchison posted: "Fusion was an amazing restaurant serving the highest quality of food, with great staff."

The business advised customers with outstanding gift vouchers purchased from September last year through to this month that they will be honoured, as it invited holders to book up.