WHEN the Advertiser reviewed Cakes and Ale not too long after the restaurant opened last year, we remarked on how it, along with other nearby outlets, had contributed to giving Old Town a much needed shot in the arm.

We also complimented it on its food and drink, on the service, and on the convivial atmosphere.

Now, less than a year after it began trading, Cakes and Ale has closed down.

The owners had been very enthusiastic about their venture and were determined to offer Swindon something that little bit different, and to give customers a new dining experience.

But, as it turned out, David and Marya Marriott struggled with finances. As they said themselves, they were “killed by taxes”.

Obviously anyone setting up their own business should have an inkling at the very least of the finances involved, but the Marriotts stress they were not stupid – “We were and are idealistic – but not naive,” David said.

So the closure of this restaurant has sadly left another empty building in Old Town, and another hole in the local social scene.

The news comes as other outlets in Old Town have closed down, with their premises yet to be filled.

But other fairly fresh businesses continue to exist and their business would seem to be brisk. This should give hope still for Old Town and the hope remains that the sort of entrepreneurial spirit shown by Cakes and Ale will prevail.

So bad luck to the Marriotts, well done for giving it a go, and good luck for the future.

In the meantime, for other business people out there, don’t give up on Old Town.