TV CHEF Gordon Ramsay contributed to the closure of a renowned Gwent restaurant he visited as a trouble-shooter, its owner claimed last night.
The foul-mouthed star made a programme for his series Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares at the former Michelin-starred Walnut Tree Inn, Llanddewi Skirrid, near Abergavenny, in 2004.
Yesterday, London-based receiver Begbies Traynor confirmed the restaurant is now up for sale.
And last night, owner Enrica Mattioli, who took over the restaurant with her husband Francesco, said she wished they had never appeared on the TV chef's show.
During the programme, Ramsay helped the couple recruit a new head chef and told them the price of some of their dishes was too high.
Speaking publicly for the first time about the Walnut Tree's closure, Mrs Mattioli said: "It was a mistake. It made us look like we were too expensive. It put people off.
"We did have customers with Bentleys and Porsches but we didn't want people to feel intimidated by this. Everybody was welcome.
"There was a honeymoon period after the show when people came to try us out but this was short lived. After a couple of weeks it went back to normal."
Mrs Mattioli, who after the inn is sold is planning to move to London to be with her husband who is working in another restaurant, said other factors also led to the Walnut Tree's demise.
"There is a lot of competition in the area and people go out less than they used to," she said.
"It's a shame because we put everything we've got into this."
Edward Symmons Hospitality and Leisure has been appointed by joint administrative receiver, Simon Thomas, of Begbies Traynor to sell the business.
Philip Gibson, partner at Bristol-based Edward Symmons Hospitality and Leisure said: "We expect The Walnut Tree Inn to attract strong interest from those who will be keen to revive its fortunes."
Mr and Mrs Mattioli took over the restaurant from Franco and Ann Taruschio in 2001.
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