A MUCH-LOVED Chinese restaurant in Southend is set to close after 21 years. 

Champagne Restaurant, in London Road, has issued an "important notice" outside the site confirming its closure. 

Bosses say Champagne Restaurant will be "permanently closing down" after Mother's Day, on March 10, 2024. 

The sign continues: "It comes with great sadness that we had to have a final deadline.

"We, the staff, would like to express our gratitude and thank you for your continued support over the past year, and also for the 21 years that we have now been open."

Echo: Sign - Champagne RestaurantSign - Champagne Restaurant (Image: Newsquest)

The popular restaurant has been a hit with residents across the city for more than 20 years.