One of Swindon’s most popular restaurants is looking for a new owner to take over its management.

The current owners of Los Gatos, which has been based in Old Town for over a decade, are making the move as they look towards retirement, and hope to complete the transition to a new operator over the next year.

Phil Saunter, who co-owns the restaurant with partner Shareen Campbell, said: “We’re getting a bit long in the tooth for this game, and over the last couple of years have brought in management posts for the bar and the kitchen, so we don’t have to do so much ourselves.

“Believe it or not, we’re both pensioners now, so we’ve started thinking about handing over the reins to someone younger.”

Shareen said: “When I first got involved with Los Gatos, it was only to help open it. When I started doing the cooking, I said it would only be for 2 weeks!

“Here I am, almost 12 years later, still enjoying it, but pretty exhausted! But we both still love Los Gatos, and have found real pleasure in making people feel welcome and looked after here - it’s the true meaning of restauration.”

Los Gatos first opened in Wood Street in 2006, before moving to its larger premises in Devizes Road in 2014.

They serve Spanish-influenced tapas dishes, stock a wide range of sherries and other drinks, and host events including a regular Sunday paella. They support local suppliers, and import speciality food from Spain.

Over its twelve years in business, the restaurant has become a much-loved institution in Swindon, with high-quality food and a relaxed environment proving a successful combination.

Shareen said: “Above all, whether we sell the business, or perhaps go into partnership with someone younger, we want our successful ethos to continue.

“Experience tells us it may take some time to find the right arrangement for the future, but we are in no hurry. Meanwhile, it’s very much business as usual and everyone is welcome.”