Coronation Street star forced to close restaurant after 13 years as she shares devastating post

Coronation Street star Jennie McAlpine has shut the doors on her beloved Manchester restaurant Annies after more than a decade in business.

The actress, who has played Fiz Brown on the ITV soap since 2001, broke the news in a heartfelt post, saying it was “with a heavy heart” she and husband Chris Farr had decided to close.

The much-loved city-centre gastropub which the pair opened in 2012 was a hit with locals, even ranking in Manchester’s top five restaurants on Tripadvisor before its closure.

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Regrettably, the restaurant's dedicated customers, who have been frequenting the place since 2012, are now left devastated by its abrupt closure.

In a statement, Jennie and Chris told customers: “It’s with a heavy heart that we’ve had to close the doors to Annies this week. We want to thank the amazing people, staff and customers who’ve been part of our journey. Our whole team will miss all of our wonderful customers, who we have come to call friends.”

The 'Corrie' star also expressed gratitude to loyal customers for their support over the past 13 years, sending them their "love and thanks".

Annies earned great reviews for its homely dishes like steaks, pies, hotpots and afternoon teas, securing a top spot on Tripadvior’s Manchester recommendations, even being named one of Tripadvisor’s UK “Best of the Best” restaurants last year.

It also scooped the People’s Choice award for best tea room at the Manchester Tourism Awards, cementing its place as a city favourite.

Neither Jennie nor Chris have disclosed the reason for the restaurant's closure, but patrons have been swift to express their affection for the celebrated eatery.

Fans were devastated by the sudden closure, with one writing "This is very sad news. One of our favourite places we've been too when us girls meet up - we've had afternoon tea, Sunday lunch, theatre and breakfast. You fit in nicely what ever time of our occasion."

Another sad customer wrote: "It was the only place I felt comfortable in. The food was delicious, the decor amazing, and the whole place just had a wonderful feeling about it. I will miss Annie's terribly. It was also such a little busy place."

The news comes just days after East Herts-based pan-Asian chain PEACH also announced it was shutting both its restaurants in Bishop’s Stortford and Hertford after five years.

Founders Dan Knowles and Leigh Keates told customers: “With great sadness, we want to let you know that both restaurants have now closed. We’re incredibly grateful for the support, kindness and loyalty you’ve shown us over the years - it has meant everything.”

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