THE OWNER of a popular Essex steakhouse says he is ready for the "next chapter" of his life as he prepares to wave goodbye to his "dream" business.

Mike Sutton, owner of Barrington Grill on Hockley Road, announced the closure of the restaurant on social media after nine "emotional" years as a deal to sell the venue is set to be finalised.

Customers have since filled Mr Sutton's post with comments of support, reminiscing about the memories they have created at the restaurant. 

The 38 year old says he is moving away from hospitality to focus more on his family and political career. 

He said: "I am at a different stage of my life now. I've been in hospitality for about 20 years and had the business almost 10 years, I just wanted to move on.

Emotional: Mike says the last nine years have been a crazy ride.Emotional: Mike says he wants to focus on providing safety for businesses in his new role as councillor. (Image: Mike Sutton)

"The last nine years have been brilliant. It was always a dream to have my own restaurant. I've learned a lot about business and myself on this journey.

"I want to try and spend more time with my family and restaurant working times aren't very good for that. It's just time for a new chapter in my life.

"My favourite memory was when we started doing takeaways during Covid and the community just stepped up with so many regular customers helping us out by being delivery drivers for free.

Emotional: Emotional: Mike says he has learnt a lot about himself over the last nine years. (Image: Mike Sutton)

"It felt really nice to see that. It felt like all the work we did for the community came back to us."

Mr. Sutton was recently elected ward councillor for Wheatley in May as part of Rochford District council and says he will be focusing on providing protection for businesses in his new role.

"Over the years, I've got more into politics. The industry is probably the worst it's ever been right now and needs fixing. Food and electricity prices have gone up and people don't come out as much anymore." he added.

"I want to focus on providing safety and protection for businesses that others haven't had. 

"I would just like to say a special thank you to everyone who supported our restaurant. Its been a hell of a journey and it's something I'll never forget."