A FINE dining restaurant that has had a home in the city for 20 years has announced that it will close.

Montparnasse in Palmerston Road, Southsea, was opened in August 1999 by John Saunders but the owner has announced the restaurant will close its doors on March 21.

But Mr Saunders has reassured his customers that his cooking creations and popular wine evenings will not be lost.

A statement from owner Mr Saunders said: ‘It it with a heavy heart that I have to inform you that Montparnasse will be closing in the spring.

‘I’ve had a wonderful 20 years at the helm and in that time have amassed many local customers who have become good friends.

'It is time for a new project and I am delighted to announce that I will be working with Canoe Lake Leisure reopening the cafe formerly known as Greens.

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‘Whilst this will be a daytime venture I can confirm that our regular wine pairing evenings, which have been so incredibly popular, will continue in the wonderful setting of the Canoe Lake tennis pavilion.

‘In the meantime, I would like to thank you very much for your custom over the years and I hope to see some of you in person over the next few months before we finally close our doors on March 21.’

Mr Saunders told The News that more details of his new venture will be released in the coming weeks.