ONE of Hexham’s most familiar family run restaurants is closing its doors after over three decades in the town.

The Diwan E Am restaurant has served up Indian cuisine from its Priestpopple base since 1983.

Founded by the Raja family from Bangladesh the restaurant quickly built up a loyal clientele.

It was sold by Dewan Raja in 2005, but the new owners soon ran into difficulties and the establishment subsequently closed.

Determined to see his restaurant flourish once more, Mr Raja bought it back in November 2010, and for the last five years, his son, Nahil Raja, has run the business, having left his job as an estate agent to take the helm.

However, this week Nahil announced on social media site, Facebook, that the restaurant will close on December 6.

He said the decision had been made with a “heavy heart”, but cited a recent crisis in the Indian restaurant industry as a contributing factor.

He said: “I’ve been operating the Diwan-E-Am restaurant for over five years now, although the business has been in my family ownership for the most part of 32 years.

“The business has been a huge part of my life and I will be sad to see its closure.

“I have made many friends in Hexham and will miss my regular contact with all of you.

“I thank you for all your custom and support throughout the years, it is very much appreciated.

“We will continue to provide a high level of customer service and great tasting food for our last few weeks in business.”