There is sadness in Laois following the announcement that a local business will close their doors after thirty years in business.

Papa Noni's in Abbeyleix have taken to social media to announce their upcoming closure. The café/restaurant are known for serving authentic European and Italian cuisine.

Owners Tony and Joan Mezzapelle shared the bittersweet announcement, with the closure signalling the beginning of their retirement.

Pictured: Papa Noni's. Photo: Papa Noni's Abbeyleix on Facebook

"To our loyal customers and friends, after 30 unforgettable years of serving this amazing community, we’ve made the heartfelt decision to retire and close the doors of Papa Nonis'," they said.

"Our final day of service will be Sunday, September 14. We would like to thank you for the support, loyalty, and friendship you’ve shown us over the years," the post read.

"We also want to extend our deepest thanks to our incredible suppliers, partners, and hardworking staff who have helped keep our kitchen running and our guests happy over the decades. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without you.

"While this chapter is coming to a close, the memories and relationships we’ve built will stay with us forever. We hope to see as many of you as possible before we say goodbye," the statement finished.

The announcement has received hundreds of reactions on social media, with an outpour of supportive comments from Laois locals.

"The end of an era, of you feeding the people of Abbeyleix, surrounding area & the blow ins!" one user wrote.

"Thanks for the fabulous food, service & chats in both the Eagles Rest & Papa Noni's. Nobody can beat the Special Pizzas & the memories of different functions in Happyland! Feet up now and enjoy your retirement," they wrote.

"So so sorry to hear you’re closing, don’t know what we will do without the amazing food and great company we have been lucky to have on our doorstep for so many years, but you deserve a rest and I hope you enjoy your newfound freedom away from the kitchen," another user wrote.

An overwhelming amount of users commented that their food 'will never be matched', and their service will be sorely missed.

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