Despair at the closure of The Dean restaurant in St Helens

With its champagne bar, piano music and fine dining, The Dean had won a loyal following since opening on Barrow Street in 2019.

However, with a "heavy heart", owners Eddie and Vicky Dean announced that the venue was closing on Thursday, March 31.

After adapting to the challenges brought about during the pandemic, the decision was made due to a series of family bereavements and pressures to recruit an experienced manager.

The Dean developed a popular reputation and loyal following since opening on Barrow Street in 2019

A statement from the Dean's read: "Vicky and I [Eddie] have lost a nephew, brother and mother since December, this has taken a great toll on our daily lives and continues to do so.

"As restaurateurs you have to be fully committed to the industry due to the high energy and long hours needed, our team at the restaurant has been providing immense support to attempt to take up the tasks of Vicky and I not being in attendance.

"Unfortunately in an industry that is struggling for experienced staff and, in particular, experienced managers, of which we have tried to recruit and failed to find a suitable candidate, the decision was reached yesterday that at present The Dean cannot operate and provide a service to a level that Vicky and I and the staff strive to provide."

The Dean offered fine dining, a champagne bar and piano music

With customers enjoying the different atmosphere that The Dean brought to St Helens, many have expressed their regret at the decision.

In response to the closure, Ian Allen said: "Such a shame. This was probably one of the nicest if not the nicest venue we’ve had in this town.

Ellie Lally commented: "I'm very sorry Ed and Vic. I know your heart and soul was in your venture. I totally understand your decision, your mum was a very special lady and to lose the other relatives as well, it's such a bitter blow."

Similarly, Karl Holden said: "Quite a sad story. Just as people are starting to get back out again. Good luck to the owners."

An ex-employee at The Dean, Mandie Ward wrote: "I used to work here until lockdown - what amazing people Ed and Vic are. Gutted to say the least [but I] wish them both all the best in the future."

Highlighting how highly-rated the restaurant was in St Helens and afar, Shane Bluck said: "Although I live out of town, every time I went home I visited there. The owners put their absolute heart and soul into the place and the food was as good as any food I have tasted, anywhere in the world.

"If they reopen again, anywhere on the planet, I will be there for the opening night once more.

"This is a huge step backwards for St Helens as a town, we need pioneers like this to move the town forward."

Similarly, Paul Harris said that the Dean was a "lovely, elegant place to dine and the food was outstanding along with the staff", while Daniel Benstead said that the venue was the"best restaurant in St Helens".

Finally, KT Anne wrote: "I'm so sorry to hear this. You have put your heart and soul into this business of which I absolutely adore. Such a shame but you must look after you and your family."

The Dean's statement added that any present bookings with the restaurant will receive automatic refunds within 21 days.