A pizzeria has been forced to close its doors as it struggles with mounting pressures amid the cost of living crisis.

Three Joes has this week announced it has closed its doors to its Fareham restaurant, after struggling to make the venue viable.

The brand currently has three locations, Winchester, Lincoln and Meadowhall, but the West Street site was its first store.

Founded in 2017 by three friends with a passion for Neapolitan pizza, Three Joes prides itself on quality ingredients, creative toppings and affordability.

A spokesperson for the restaurant said: “We have made the difficult decision to close our Three Joes restaurant in Fareham this week.

“Unfortunately, like many other restaurants in the current cost of living crisis, we have struggled to make this venue viable.”

It said it it is thankful to the teams who worked hard at the store.

The spokesperson continued: “We are hugely grateful to our team who have worked so hard and we are talking to them about other opportunities within Three Joes.

"They have been paid in full and we are in consultation with them.”

It added: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our lovely customers of Fareham and beyond for their support and kindness.”

The spokesperson added that its other venues continue to go from “strength to strength” and customers in Fareham are welcomed to the nearest store which is now on Great Minster Street in Winchester.

The news was first shared on social media and many took to Facebook to express their sadness.

One user, Berni O'Brien said: “I'm so sad to hear this. One of our favourite restaurants around and the staff have always been so amazing.

“Gutted for them, really will miss it.”

Meanwhile, another Carla Lala Hodgson said: “I honestly can't believe it, such a breath of fresh air when Three Joe's arrived, staff have always been amazing, wonderful ambience and great food.

“We loved the black and white movies on the projector the cars games on the table like Trivial pursuit, no one looked at their phones, a very sociable venue indeed! Will be greatly missed.

“Hope all the staff find new employment soon, best of luck to you all.”