THE popular Yellow Bicycle Café in Blandford is to close after more than a decade serving hungry visitors.

The Salisbury Street eatery has shut up shop as owner, Steve Bell, recovers from a recent illness.

He said he had been putting off announcing the closure as it is “a hard notice to post”.

“Unfortunately (as some of you may have guessed) I’ve had to make the unbelievably tough decision to close the café after 10 and a half years,” he said.

“I’m recovering well from my illness, but a combination of the time we’ve had to be closed and making sure I put my health first for once, has left me with no choice.”

Steve said he had no plans for future, other than “returning to full fitness”.

“I can’t really put into words my gratitude for the support from you our customers, Blandford as a whole, our suppliers and of course all the wonderful staff it’s been a joy to work with since we first opened our doors way back in 2014,” he added.

“At present I don’t know what I’m doing next other than returning to full fitness.

“Thank you for being part of the most incredible time at the Yellow Bicycle.”

Customers have reacted with sadness to the news.

One said: “You and the Yellow Bicycle will be very much missed – have always had the best food with you.

“Take care and I hope you recover fully before too long. Thank you for all your wonderful hard work and great food.”

And another added: “So sorry to hear this Steve. I wish you the best in your recovery and your future.

“Thank you for being a great business in town and providing us with lovely food and happy times.”

Over the years, the Yellow Bicycle Café has been nominated for a number of awards and recognised by a variety of prestigious organisations, including the National Breakfast and Brunch Awards, the South West England Tourism Excellence Awards and more.