One of Preston's oldest curry houses has closed after 57 years of trade

The Spice of Bengal, which is now located on Friargate in the City Centre, first opened its doors to the public in 1960.

The restaurant was open for over half a century and delighted students and Prestonians with its late night curries.

A note in the window of the restaurant said: "We are very sorry to tell you that the Spice of Bengal will no longer be open.

"We would like to thank you for your custom over the years.

"Due to family circumstances we decided to totally close the business.

"We are sorry for any inconvenience."

Tim Horton, 55, from Fulwood remembered the Bengal with affection.

He said: "This was the first curry house I ever went to - the playing of songs sung by Lata Mangeshkar on constant loop (back in the days of tape). The dodgy stairs up to the toilets that somebody always fell down late at night. The "house curry" that you could ask for if you were a regular and came in early enough.

"The old waiter who until recently had been there "forever". The dares to heat the hottest curry - you could order Chicken Phall, which was not on the menu, but always available, and the waiter used to stand over anybody who ordered it to see if they could handle it.

"I'm 55 and the place has always been there, and has served three generations of my family.

"Traditional and old school, but in a nostalgic and fondly remembered way. Went back there earlier this year for the first time in 10 years, it was half empty, and quiet but the food was great."

Speaking during an interview to mark the restaurant's 50th anniversary in 2010 owner Ronnie Choudhury, said: “I would like to thank our regular customers who have supported us over the years."