A GROUP of committed Helensburgh volunteers say they've begun talks on keeping a key venue in the town open to the public.

The Friends of Hermitage Park stepped in after the sudden closure of the Park Pavilion Cafe and Kiosk was announced on social media in the early hours of July 29.

Local residents were left shocked and saddened by news of the cafe's closure.

The eatery opened in May 2021 after chef Jamie Nicolson agreed a lease for the premises with the building's owners, Argyll and Bute Council.

Commenting on the closure, one Advertiser reader, Alastair Stenhouse, said: "Sad news for the owners.

"Can't help think if they had kept it more simple and offered a better, cheaper range for kids, it might have been more successful. Wrong location for a fancy restraunt."

And Debbie Alderson wrote: "Such a shame. Lovely food. They will find a venue and that will get more footfall and better for them. Argyll & Bute [Council] wanting too much for rent. Such a shame."

Now the Friends said they are looking to step in.

In a statement issued to the Advertiser, the Friends said: "The Friends are aware The Park Pavilion Cafe and Kiosk is now closed.

"We are in discussion with Argyll and Bute Council about this and have opened the toilets for visitors' convenience.

"We will let everyone know if and when we have any further updates."

The council first advertised for expressions of interest in taking on a lease for the pavilion in the autumn of 2018.

Argyll and Bute Council has been approached for comment.

In a post on social media, a spokesperson for the venue said: "Due to what we believe to be unsurmountable issues with the building and rising maintenance costs, the Pavilion has ceased to trade.

"This is not a decision that has been easy, and would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported us over the past few years.

"In time, we hope to find another venue to pick up where we left off."