A popular café has announced that it will be closing its doors next month after experiencing financial issues connected to costs, rent and energy bills.

Caffe Tempo, which is based in Ripon's Arcade, has been based in the city for the last six years - but after battling rising costs, it has revealed that it would be closing on Saturday, July 22. 

In an emotional statement online, the coffee shop set out how much extra it would have to pay if it was to keep going - and the reasons behind the closure.

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The statement reads: "This is a post that we never imagined writing, it is with great sadness we release the heartbreaking news that we are calling time on Caffe Tempo. 

"This has not been an easy decision for us, but unfortunately the challenges the hospitality industry has faced and continues to face have reached the point of no return.

"Inflation is currently reported as 10.2% but the reality is that many of our raw products have increased between 100% and 300% and to transfer this to the items we sell makes them so expensive that they go from everyday purchases to once in a while."

Alongside the cost of products, the owner has branded the prospect of having to pay £1800 per month as "non viable".

The statement added: "The staffing shortages have made this even more difficult, as Tina has been working over 70 hrs a week since returning after Covid and to ensure we have her for a lot longer, it is time for her to take a break.

"We are extremely grateful to our team who have been incredibly supportive through the last 6 years and through this very difficult decision, we wish them all the very best in their futures.

"To all our amazing customers, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you! You made us number 1 in Ripon for six years and for that we are very grateful."