West End institution Tchai-Ovna House of Tea devastated loyal patrons on Tuesday with news it would close.

Fans reacted with 'great sadness' following Tuesday's announcement made on Facebook.

The independent cafe was a much-loved cultural venue frequented by famous bands Belle and Sebastien and Franz Ferdinand. It was also visited by Hollywood actress Scarlett Johansen.

The cafe 'will serve its last cuppa' on July 31, 2023 after over 23 years. To mark the occasion, the owners have organised a Tchai-Ovna Farewell Festival from July 1 to 31.

The festival will be headlined by Mercury Award-winning pianist Fergus McReadie, whose links to Tchai-Ovna run deep.

The musician first cut his teeth on the keys by playing co-owner Martin Fell's grandfather's upright piano while attending the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

Martin said: “I am humbled by the response to our announcement over social media – such an outpouring of love.

"We came to the decision for a number of reasons, some specific to ourselves and our location, and some which other businesses across the hospitality sector are experiencing.

"However, my team and I look forward to pastures new in the world of tea, we will still be selling online, in other stockists and at festivals et cetera.”