Residents have voiced their sadness after a long-established Indian restaurant announced they will be closing after more than 20 years of service.

Lagan restaurant on Broadgate in Ladybridge will be closing in October when the lease on the building comes to an end.

Raj Das – who ran the family business with his uncle’s Gebish and Moyna Dey - says that they will miss the customers the most who became more like “extended family”.

Read more: Bolton Market Food Hall attracts dozens of traders on open day

The restaurant has been established since 2003 and in early 2022 underwent and extensive revamp with a theme of dim lights and dark walls with cherry blossom trees around the dining room.

The Bolton News: Lagan2

Customers reacted with sadness to the announcement yesterday with some calling it the “best Indian restaurant in Bolton”.

One woman said: “Had many great family memories here lovely food brilliant friendly staff will be missed and will miss going there.”

Another man said: “Wonderful restaurant. Dedicated and hardworking, honest owners.

The Bolton News:

“Very sad loss. Hope they set up elsewhere.”

While another said: "Tremendous achievement 20 years, says it all. Quality."

Read more: Bolton's multi-million pound properties on sale on Zoopla

Speaking about the closure, Raj said: “During this time we have made some amazing friends both new and old.

“We would like to thank all our customers who have supported us throughout the years. Particularly so during the difficult pandemic.”

In a statement to their customers, they said: “You have seen us grow, transition our styles and kept us motivated and committed to continue serving you each day.

“From the bottom of our hearts we want to say thank you to each and every one of you for your support, your kind words and continued love for our restaurant.

The Bolton News:

“It is with great sadness we make this announcement today after having made such great relationships within our Bolton community.

“We will continue to serve for you for the next eight months with the same passion, love and motivation that we had when first opening our doors.”

Plans have since been submitted to covert Lagan’s restaurant into a prayer-room and education centre, as well as the lease coming to an end.

Some readers have described their disappointment at this with fears that prayers will start in the early hours and carry on late into the night.

Others are worried that they prayer-room won’t fit into the current estate close to the restaurant.