The owner of a Kenilworth fine dining pub says he is "looking ahead to brighter days," weeks after closing his other restaurant in Birmingham.

Chef owner of The Cross in Kenilworth, Andreas Antona, announced in May that his famous Simpsons eatery in Birmingham would close after 32 years.

The Cross - which claimed a Michelin star for the 12th consecutive year this spring - remains open and Mr Antona said there is positivity for the hospitality sector.

"I do see some light at the end of the tunnel," he wrote.

"The VATs the Problem campaign is gaining momentum and some MPs do seem to be listening!

"I am now keeping busy with The Cross and Soko Patisserie.

"If you haven't yet been to The Cross, summer is a great time to try it. We have a lovely garden for al fresco drinks and will have the air conditioning switched on in our spacious restaurant.

"Watch this space and follow our social media channels for updates in the coming weeks and click the link below to book your table."

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While Mr Antona said the closure of Simpsons was "a very difficult decision to make," he has thanked wellwishers for their kind messages over the past five weeks.

He has also recently celebrated some persona success with the Lifetime Achievement Honour in the Midlands Food & Drink Hospitality Awards as well as an MBE in the King's Honours List.