A much-loved restaurant has been forced to close after its owners fell victim to a “horrible” phone scam.

Barletta, located inside the Turner Contemporary gallery in Margate, will close its doors for good on Friday, December 9 after fraudulent activity on the company bank account made running the business impossible.

Co-owner Natalia Ribbe says thieves took all the money out of her account, costing the restaurant £50,000.

“I don’t know how it happened, I was tricked into thinking I was talking to the Financial Conduct Authority, they knew my address, how many accounts I have,” said Ms Ribbe, 37.

“It’s devastating that our team is having to lose their jobs right before Christmas and in the middle of a cost of living crisis.

“But it's the best decision for the businesses and sometimes you just have to make hard decisions.

“We’re so grateful to have operated in this beautiful town. It’s a shame it had to end this way - it didn’t have to be so abrupt and horrible.”

For its remaining days, the eatery will continue to serve its regular fare, before running a special menu of customer favourites on the final day of service.

Anchovies on toast and spiced carrots will be among the dishes to feature on the December 9 food list.

Ms Ribbe, who runs Barletta with her life-partner, Jackson Berg, expressed regret that after all the hard work that had been put into the restaurant, it is being forced to shut.

“They say that everything happens for a reason and maybe in six months time or something I will look back and see some positivity that has come for all this, but right now I can’t," she said.

“We’re really sorry that it had to end in such a sad way, but we’ve been so grateful to have operated in this beautiful town.”

Barletta previously hoped a crowd-fundraising campaign would help salvaged the business, but donations failed to reach the level required.

In a Facebook post announcing the closure, the restaurant said any donations would be refunded on request.

“Any remaining funds will be donated to Hospitality Action, who supports hospitality businesses facing challenging times,” read the post.

The news was met by disappointment in the comments, with one user remarking: “Had some great times munching, laughing, chatting at various venues of yours. Feel absolutely gutted for you guys.”

Looking forward, Ms Ribbe and Mr Berg will be focussing on their newly-opened wine bar, Sète, in nearby Cliftonville.

The couple plan to open a restaurant in the rear of the venue in the new year.