HERE are five businesses that have closed in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole in October. 

Post

The bar in Post Office Road is described as a Bier Haus built on Bohemian spirit and was opened in 2022 by the owners of Aruba at the pier. 

Bosses said its decision to close was down to ‘challenges of operating in the current town centre environment’.   

They said: “The challenges of operating in the current town centre environment have become increasingly tough, and we believe this is the right time to step back.” 

M's Bakery

The award-winning Christchurch bakery announced it will close following financial struggles.

M’s Bakery, known for selling the ‘best sourdough in the world’, shared the news on social media that it will be closing its doors.

Owners Marta and Istvan said: “It has been a pleasure serving our products to our customers, who became friends and family over the years, but it is time to say goodbye."

Baraca

The Turkish restaurant in Charminster Road, Bournemouth closed following the first anniversary of its owner and chef Aynur Kurt.

Aynur, who died on September 26, 2023 aged 52, was celebrated not only for her “remarkable culinary talent” but also for her “warmth, selflessness, and vibrant spirit.”

A year after her passing, the family made the difficult decision to close Baraca Restaurant after 23 years of successful and well-established family business.

Cafe Velo

Café Velo, in Star Lane, Ringwood, was founded in Easter 2018 by Peter Moore, an electrician by trade, and Vicky Richards, who had previously worked in the care and retail industries. 

The family-run independent cafe was named Cyclist Café of the Year in England by the charity Cycling UK following a public vote and assessment from a judging panel.

The cafe was sold by the couple in October 2023 to new owners who on Friday evening, September 6, announced the cafe has now closed after more than just under a year of business. 

Isan Thai

Isan Thai in Parkstone Road closed because of rises in VAT.

Phil Milton and his wife have been the ‘heart and soul’ of the restaurant since it was first opened in 2016.

He said: “We were doing very well up until lockdown. "But when the VAT came back up to 20 per cent - it is a massive problem because in a restaurant, whenever you buy in a product to cook, it's got zero rated VAT on it which means we can't claim anything back.