ONE of Ammanford’s largest entertainment venues is to close at the end of the month, it has emerged.

The owners of the Mountain Gate in Tycroes have annnounced it will close on February 27 leaving customers who have booked functions faced with a search for a new venue.

The owners, who are currentlyin the process of contacting everyone who has an event booked at the Ammanford Road establishment, say the decision to close was due to circumstances beyond their control.

A statement, released on their website yesterday morning, says:“A decision, resulting from circumstances beyond our control, has been taken to cease trading as a restaurant with rooms and function centre from the aforementioned date onwards, but unfortunately, the future path for the Mountain Gate, still remains unclear at the moment.”

The message pays tribute to the “loyal and hardworking” staff, thanking them for their dedication and professionalism since the decision to close was made.

It adds: “Despite our personal sadness at this development,Emyr, Rachel and Andrea and indeed the whole of our loyal team of staff would like to say a huge “thank you” to all of our customers, not only for you support and custom over the past few years of our time at The Mountain Gate, but also for your loyalty, patronage and friendships, both new and long standing.

“It has been our pleasure to welcome you on each visit and our privilege to share in all the various functions held here during that time.”

The large centre opened in 2012 and has been a popular wedding and celebration venue and a regular choice for many local groups, charities and organisations for hosting events.