A popular restaurant is set to reduce its hours and menu in January in an attempt to fight the cost of living crisis.

The Lane, in Deal, has announced plans to combat rising energy costs by cutting down its opening times.

The owners claim their energy bills could increase by a whopping 600% once their current tariff expires.

Anna and Chris Vidler, who co-own the business, posted on their Facebook page: “In January our menu and hours will be reduced and we will also be planning new events.

"Sadly it's not only the rising fuel costs, there are various bills that have hit the industry hard.

"Cost of produce has risen by double, triple and some quadruple in price.

"After speaking to many businesses in Kent, the rise in VAT seems to be the hardest rise. The reduced VAT bill during Covid helped us and possibly other hospitality venues survive."

Despite the difficulties, the pair remain defiant and are refusing to raise prices to counteract their bills.

"One of the things we cannot do is put prices up by much comparative with the cost of our bills and supply prices as this will only drive more customers away," they added.

"It's not all money related, our staff have worked tirelessly, they are incredibly loyal and have agreed to stick with us and work hard in these challenging times."

The Lane is one of Deal's most highly rated restaurants, with a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor.

But Mr and Mrs Vidler have also raised concerns for other businesses in the area.

They added: "We have spoken to some businesses in the hospitality industry and we are all worried about what the future may hold. Where would we go if all the restaurants closed?"

Some Kent businesses have responded to their post on Facebook, sharing their concerns about the rise in energy bills.

A bar in Dover, called The Cider Works, said: "You echo the fears of all small businesses in this post. Wishing you the very best of luck for 2023."

Meanwhile, Joe's Cafe & Bar in Thanet commented: "From all of us at Joe's Cafe & Bar in Minnis Bay, hoping you all have a great Christmas and good luck as the new year evolves."

The Vidlers opened the business in South Street over eight years ago and say they will do all they can to avoid closing down.

"We have created so many memories for many people and this is what we will continue to do in 2023, we just hope something changes for businesses out there," they added.