Messages of support have flooded in via social media after a popular Norfolk restaurant announced it had closed its doors permanently.

It comes following a post to The Norfolk Riddle’s Facebook page which confirmed that the eatery had ceased trading after entering into a period of voluntary liquidation.

Based in the historic village of Little Walsingham, situated between Fakenham and Wells, the restaurant prided itself on serving the “finest quality local ingredients” and was listed as one of the best in the county for serving locally sourced produce .

Run by local chef and owner Neil Rutland, The Norfolk Riddle first opened its doors two years ago.

Mr Rutland himself began working in commercial kitchens from the age of 15 and worked up the ranks to become head chef at some of Norfolk’s finest hotels.

A statement on its Facebook page read: “Here we are then, two years after we started we are devastated to announce that we as The Norfolk Riddle Ltd have ceased trading, and entered a period of voluntary liquidation.

“To say that we are gutted is an understatement.

“We would just like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported us, it’s been incredible to meet you all, we’ve had some wonderful times and met some amazing people.

“Thanks.”

The post has received dozens of comments from past customers expressing their shock and sadness at the closure of the local, independent business.