A POPULAR restaurant and deli in Galashiels has been forced to close its doors.

Turnbull's, which also has premises in Hawick, announced yesterday that it has been forced to cease trading due to the collapse of an investor.

The family firm dates back more than 160 years.

Since expanding to Galashiels nearly four years ago the good-quality delicatessen and restaurant had become a firm favourite on the High Street.

And it has received glowing reviews on all of the major online tourist sites.

Just before Christmas boss Ross Irvine, the great, great, great-grandson of founder James Turnbull, was optimistic during an interview about the future after tying up retail partnerships with local producers.

But the bombshell was dropped this week to staff.

In a statement released to the Borders Telegraph a spokesman said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the closure of Turnbull’s due to circumstances beyond our control.

"Despite our best efforts, the financial collapse of a major private investor left us with no alternative but to cease trading."

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers for their tremendous support over the years. We will miss you and none of it would have been possible without you."