THE exhausted owner of a Taunton restaurant is closing down to "get some time off".

Anise Mediterranean Cuisine, in Station Road, will open on Sunday (December 22) and New Year's Eve before closing to the public.

It will open for a couple of private functions in January before shutting for good.

Richard has posted a message on social media informing customers of his decision to close.

He writes: "Unfortunately, it is with much regret and genuine sadness that I feel the need to inform you of my decision to close Anise.

"This decision has not been an easy one for me to make and one I have spent many weeks worrying about.

"For the past two years I have had the honour of being the proprietor and sole chef here at Anise.

"This has required me to work every day of the week, from dusk till dawn with no days off!!

"It’s such a small establishment that if I’m not about we can’t maintain the standards.

"With this in mind, physically I think I’m due some time off."

He thanked his loyal customers who helped keep Anise at #1 on Trip Advisor for ten months and his "maitre d' extraordinaire maitre d" Kamil.

He added: "Finally I would like to thank everyone single one of you for your custom and support.

"With all my heart I hope one day I will be able to cook for you once again."