A Norwich city centre restaurant has closed its doors, just nine months after new owners took over the running.

Mackintosh's Canteen, in Chapelfield Plain, was sold along with the other businesses of restaurateur Henry Watt - The Mad Moose in Norwich's Golden Triangle, The Wildebeest Arms in Stoke Holy Cross and The Hunny Bell, near Holt - in April last year.

Animal Inns took over all four businesses but notices have now been put in the windows of Mackintosh's explaining that the restaurant has closed.

An Animal Inns notice states: 'We would like to take the opportunity to thank all our customers for their support over the years and look forward to continuing to welcome them at our other venues.'

It is thought the other three restaurants are unaffected and open as normal, although attempts to speak to Animal Inns yesterday proved unsuccessful.

However, new life is set to be breathed into the now empty premises almost straight away.

Sheridan Smith, marketing manager of Chapelfield Shopping Centre, explained: 'Obviously we are always sorry when a tenant chooses to leave Chapelfield; it is particularly sad to see Mackintosh's go because the name is so synonymous with the history of Chapelfield.

'However, changes to the mix of shops, cafes and restaurants within the shopping centre are key to Chapelfield's success.

'Ensuring that this mix appeals to customers is very important and we are constantly in discussion with retailers and restaurant groups that are interested in coming to Chapelfield.

'Gourmet Burger Kitchen, which is taking over the unit vacated by Mackintosh's Canteen, will bring a new dynamic to Chapelfield Plain and offer our shoppers something fresh and exciting.'

- Meanwhile, The Westlegate pub, opposite Norwich's John Lewis store in All Saints Green, has closed.

A notice in the windows of the premises states that Enterprise Inns PLC has 're-entered the premises' on behalf of freehold owner Unique Pub Properties Ltd as 'the lease is at an end'.

- Do you have a pub story? Call reporter David Bale on 01603 7724527 or email david.bale2@archant.co.uk