THE Frankie and Benny's restaurant in Leigh will close tomorrow, Tuesday.

The Italian-American restaurant, based at The Loom retail park, employs 17 staff.

Parent company The Restaurant Group says factors such as a rise in property costs has led to the business putting a number of outlets up for sale across the country.

The Restaurant Group confirmed the Leigh outlet will shut on Tuesday.

A spokesman for The Restaurant Group said: "The casual dining market is facing various headwinds, such as increased property costs, which has impacted certain sites within our leisure portfolio.

"In light of this backdrop, we have taken the difficult decision to close the Frankie and Benny’s site in Leigh.

“We regret the impact on colleagues, and will ensure that they are supported throughout the process, as well as identifying opportunities for those wishing to remain in the business.

"Where possible, we have looked to redeploy staff to other sites within The Restaurant Group’s portfolio.”