A long-running Chinese takeaway has closed amid financial difficulties in a move which has left customers “gutted”.

Beijing House in Ashford threw open its doors for business in 2017 with a team of chefs boasting decades of experience between them.

But bosses have now shut the Beaver Road establishment’s doors after more than eight years of trade, where it amassed strong reviews and a top food hygiene rating.

The takeaway had appeared to close temporarily after a sign in its front window, which remains today, told customers: "Until further notice, we are closed for refurbishment."

However, a statement released by the business online has now confirmed this is not the case.

It read: "Beijing House is now permanently closed.

"The owners of Beijing House Chinese Takeaway have vacated this premises."

The business, which has since deleted its Facebook page, added: "A big thank you to everyone for your support.

"Unfortunately, we have to close due to lease implications."

Following the announcement, customers reacted to the post stating they were “gutted” and “frustrated” with the closure, while others gave the team a fond farewell.

The shop, which replaced Hong Kong Kitchen, was popular across the town for its traditional Chinese cuisine.

It served up typical fare like stir-fries, rice and noodle dishes, plus beef chop suey and salted and chilli spareribs.

It had also received a five-star hygiene rating in its latest food inspection report in October 2023.

Scoring 4.2 our of five stars on Google Review, some of the 136 comments heap praise on the “highly recommended” establishment which provided “value for money”.

Posting recently, Harrison White wrote: “By far my favourite Chinese takeout in Ashford, I’ve tried them all, this one by far is the best - not greasy and or too salty, consistently reliable.”

Tamin Taher added: “I was served the most amazing pork ribs of all time. Their pork in general is amazing, and so was their service.”