Bosses of a restaurant neighbouring Swindon's closed Empire cinema say trade has suffered in recent weeks.

The cinema shut unexpectedly on Friday, July 7, leaving staff and customers stunned.

Assistant manager Suraj Lotlekar has worked next door at Frankie & Benny’s for three years and says the American and Italian eatery has been hit.

Swindon Advertiser: Frankie & Benny's can be found in Swindon's Greenbridge Retail Park.Frankie & Benny's can be found in Swindon's Greenbridge Retail Park. (Image: Newsquest)

“Business is not as much with fewer walk-ins so we are losing customers,” he said.

“With no cinema those who usually come, we have lost, but we are still getting some walk-ins each day.

“We are not massively affected by this closure but we have noticed a difference.”

The 48-year-old remains hopeful new businesses will move to the retail park and bring customers with them.

“The staff used to go to the cinema and now its too far for us to go and watch films,” said Suraj.

“We might get back some business when the new bowling place comes here next year and I also hope that a new cinema might move into the old building as that would be good for us.”