Running a business can be a tough gig and over the past few years it has been especially challenging. 

It was sad to read about the closure of Frank’s Bar in Bedford Street, Norwich, after it had been a popular spot in the Norwich Lanes for the past 15 years. 

Owners and cousins James Wingfeld and Ella Williams confirmed the bar opened for the final time on January 7 and in a statement said the decision to close was made with a "very heavy heart". 

They added the "once healthy business" had been "decimated" by the Covid pandemic and cost of living crisis. 

Frank’s Bar was a place where friends, work colleagues and couples could meet for a chat and a laugh over a cocktail, cup or tea and coffee and cake. 

It was also a cosy spot which was nice to pop into on a night out. 

Frank’s was also a place where I had one of my early dates with my future husband around 10 years ago. 

It was a good little café and bar and epitomised the strength of Norwich as a hub for buzzing independent businesses. 

But it is a sad reality that many hospitality businesses were hit hard by the pandemic and lockdowns, despite adapting well to the changing trading environment. 

Cost of living rises are a real concern too because they affect how much people spend in their communities. 

It also affects prices that people in the hospitality industry have to pay for food and drink they sell and the electricity they use. 

I don’t often go out now because of having small children but I also feel I can spend less on going out because of rising bills at home. 

When I do go out though I like to take advantage of the city’s great independent businesses and I will definitely miss Frank’s Bar.