FEARS that a popular cafe, bar and grill in Trowbridge would close have been banished after the new owner said it will be open for business on Friday (February 9).

The former owner of The Garden, John Paine, decided to close the Fore Street eatery on Saturday because of family reasons.

However, its new owner, Gayle Harper, says the place will be back up and running, under the new name of Orchard Lounge, and it will have a few new additions as well.

“People that were worried about this place closing down having nothing to fear as it is back, with a few exciting changes,” said the 43-year-old.

“We are keeping on some staff, including the head chef and assistant manager, so we are keeping some things the same but also changing the menu a bit.

“Before it was a lovely, very traditional and British place and now we are adding some tapas, sharing boards, food platters, tagliatelle and more cakes - all of which will be locally sourced.

“I spotted the notice almost straight away when Mr Paine made the announcement. It had a nice rustic feeling, with plants and flower pots but we will make it a bit more premium.

“In just over 24 hours, hundreds of people like it on Facebook, so that is an encouraging start.”

Mr Paine will still run The Garden restaurant in Chippenham, which re-opened last March after being damaged by a fire.

“I wish Mr Paine the best of luck in the future and with his family,” said Ms Harper, who has worked in hospitality, business development, events management and sales marketing.

The Orchard Lounge is open from 10am from Monday to Saturday.