Preston restaurateur Mark O’Rourke has announced the closure of Fino Tapas in Lytham after a year.

The decision has been taken following a decline in sales and footfall over the past six months.

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The restaurant will close from Sunday 14 August. Fino Tapas Preston and Blackpool remain open.

Speaking to Blog Preston, Mark said: “It’s a case of seeing declining sales in Lytham and increased sales at other sites, making it harder to continue to operate there.

“Gas and electric alone is £5,000 a month and then there’s rent, rates and staffing costs, meaning ultimately it has to make a certain amount each month and if it doesn’t it doesn’t work.”

July sales at Fino Tapas Lytham were down 50 per cent versus last year.

Asked about the possible reasons for the drop, Mark said: “I’m not too sure; it may be that more people are on holiday this year and with cost of living going for days out less.

“The weather hasn’t really been great and its a very weather dependant area.”

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Staff members have been offered jobs at Fino Tapas in Preston and Blackpool, and the upcoming Chester venue, which will open later in the year.

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