But in a statement released on Monday, Purnell's said it had been served its final customers on Saturday, October 12., Gary Rhodes and Claude Bosi, expressed his sadness over the closure, citing a combination of economic pressures and the ongoing challenges faced by the hospitality industry.He said: “Purnell’s has been my proudest moment, and I am heartbroken to say that after 17 years we have served our final guest.
"I would like to thank everybody who has worked for me over the years. I have always had a team who are like family to me, who have worked with creativity, passion and enthusiasm to make Purnell’s the success it has been for 17 years. I’d also like to thank everybody who has ever eaten here and celebrated life here.