Celebrity chef and television host Simon Rimmer has announced the closure of his vegetarian restaurant, Greens, in Didsbury, Manchester, after 33 years of operation, the Daily Mail has reported.

Rimmer took this decision as a result of a significant increase in rent and due to the escalating costs of running the business, which made it financially unviable.  

The rent has been hiked by 35% by the property's landlords. Increasing energy, staff and supply costs have also impacted the business.  

Rimmer co-founded Greens with his business partner Simon Connolly.  

The restaurant, which has been a staple in the Manchester suburb, was known for its slogan: "‘Terrifying carnivores since 1990".  

Its menu included a mix of small and large dishes. The cheapest item, priced at £4.50, was the vegetarian black pudding, and the most expensive item was a falafel burger at £14.50. 

The co-founders opened a second Greens restaurant in Sale, Greater Manchester, in July 2022 and will continue to operate it.  

Rimmer said: “This is a very sad day. After 33 years of running Greens in Didsbury, we've unfortunately had to close the door. 

“Our landlords have increased our rent [in the region of] 35% [and] the cost of raw materials, the cost of heat, light and power, employing people and general food costs have meant that the business unfortunately has become unviable. 

“With immediate effect we've unfortunately shut the door. It's a heartbreaking day. 

“I'd like to thank every single member of staff that has worked for us over the years, every single customer that has come through the door, our amazing suppliers, our neighbours, our friends and anybody who has ever set foot inside the door.”