Coronation Street actress Jennie McAlpine has closed the doors on her cherished Manchester eatery Annies after more than a decade of trading.

The performer, who has portrayed Fiz Brown on the ITV soap since 2001, announced the news in an emotional statement, revealing it was “with a heavy heart” that she and spouse Chris Farr had chosen to shut.

The popular city-centre gastropub, which the couple launched in 2012, proved a favourite with residents, even securing a place among Manchester’s top five eateries on Tripadvisor prior to its closure, reports the Mirror. Unfortunately, the establishment’s loyal patrons, who have been visiting since 2012, are now left heartbroken by its sudden shutdown.

In their announcement, Jennie and Chris informed diners: “It’s with a heavy heart that we’ve had to close the doors to Annies this week. We want to thank the amazing people, staff and customers who’ve been part of our journey. Our whole team will miss all of our wonderful customers, who we have come to call friends.”

The ‘Corrie’ actress also thanked devoted patrons for their backing throughout the past 13 years, offering them her “love and thanks”.

Annies received excellent feedback for its comforting fare including steaks, pies, hotpots and afternoon teas, achieving a leading position on Tripadvisor’s Manchester listings, and was even recognised as one of Tripadvisor’s UK “Best of the Best” establishments last year.

The venue also claimed the People’s Choice award for finest tea room at the Manchester Tourism Awards, establishing its reputation as a city gem. Neither Jennie nor Chris have revealed why the restaurant has shut its doors, yet customers have quickly shown their fondness for the much-loved dining spot.

\Corronation Street star Jennie McAlpine’s city centre restaurant Annies, which is about to celebrate 4th anniversary.

(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Regulars were heartbroken over the abrupt closure, with one patron commenting, “This is very sad news. One of our favourite places we’ve been too when us girls meet up – we’ve had afternoon tea, Sunday lunch, theatre and breakfast. You fit in nicely what ever time of our occasion.”

Another disheartened diner remarked: “It was the only place I felt comfortable in. The food was delicious, the decor amazing, and the whole place just had a wonderful feeling about it. I will miss Annie’s terribly. It was also such a little busy place.”

This announcement follows closely on the heels of East Herts-based pan-Asian chain PEACH, which also declared the closure of its establishments in Bishop’s Stortford and Hertford after a five-year run.

PEACH founders Dan Knowles and Leigh Keates shared with their patrons: “With great sadness, we want to let you know that both restaurants have now closed. We’re incredibly grateful for the support, kindness and loyalty you’ve shown us over the years – it has meant everything.”

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