AN ACCLAIMED Hereford restaurant has closed after five months in business.

Location and the credit crunch is being blamed for the demise of Las Domus Bar & Bistro.

The privately-owned restaurant opened in May below Pomona Place Travelodge, near Sainsbury's in Hereford. It employed more than 20 staff.

But receivers were called-in late last week, while Travelodge staff telephoned diners with the bad news.

The 100-seat restaurant was overseen by three co-directors, Mike Moran, Paul Wheeler and Andrew Herrod. The latter confirmed the closure on Tuesday, but believes the closure could be short-term.

“I think it’s because the market didn’t match the food being offered,” said Mr Herrod.

“But someone is looking to buy it, and it could be sold by the end of the week.”

Staff could be re-offered their jobs should the deal be completed.