A POPULAR Bournemouth bar and restaurant has suddenly shut its doors.

Banque & Bohem in Poole Hill posted a message on its Facebook page last night which reads: "Update.

"Due to unforeseen circumstances we have had to cease trading with immediate effect.

Bournemouth Echo:

"We would like to take the opportunity to thank you all for the support and love you have shown us over the past year.

"We look forward to future ventures coming to Bournemouth."

Bournemouth Echo:

The venue, which offered a cocktail bar and brasserie-style restaurant, opened in November 2017. The Grade II-listed building is the former site of The Winchester.

More than 500 people visited during the bar's opening weekend. The eatery offered bottomless Prosecco brunches, afternoon tea and roasts.

Shortly after Banque & Bohem opened, managing director Vincent Marion said he wanted to create a "luxurious and visually stunning restaurant and bar".

Mr Marion, who has more than 25 years in the hospitality industry, said he had initially searched London for a suitable venue.

"As soon as we saw this stunning building in Bournemouth with its original features such as the marble fireplaces, vault door and mahogany staircase we knew it was the perfect fit for us," he said.

"We believe have created something very special here and the response so far has been phenomenal."