Preston's Mad Giant Foodhall has temporarily shut six months after opening, following the departure of its original line-up of food vendors.

The food court opened at the city’s Animate complex in October and featured local vendors Eat Like a Greek, Cove & Crumb, Different Gravy and Crust & Co Pizza.

But the Mad Giant Foodhall has now closed following the departure of Eat Like A Greek, leaving the venue without a vendor.

General manager Josh Norris says the foodhall will reopen on Tuesday, April 21, with a “fresh line-up of food vendors”.

All the original food vendors within the Mad Giant Food Hall at Preston's Animate complex have now departed | William Matthews

placeholder image — All the original food vendors within the Mad Giant Food Hall at Preston's Animate complex have now departed | William Matthews

Josh said: “I think the most important thing to stress is that this is only a temporary closure.

“We have a selection of strong food vendors ready to come in over the next few weeks to ensure our offerings appeal to people of all ages.

“We are aiming to redefine the customers' experience at the Mad Giant with a plethora of new deals, offers and opportunities, as well as a consistent live events schedule including singers, DJ's and interactive activities.

“The most ambitious part of our project seeks to offer the customers a way to leave their own mark on our venue, adding to its flair and style and making us unique as the only venue across Preston to offer this.”

Opening day at Preston's MAD giant at Animate | Local Library

The Mad Giant also issued the following statement on what customers can expect when the doors reopen next week.

It said: “Thank you for your continued support since our opening last October. We’ve shared some incredible moments, great vibes and amazing food together.

“Today, we say goodbye to our final original vendor, Eat Like A Greek along with Cove & Crumb. It’s been a pleasure working with you both and we wish you every success in the future.

“As one chapter closes, another begins. Behind the scenes, we’ve been working on exciting new plans and partnering with a fresh line-up of food vendors to elevate your experience from the moment you walk through our doors.

“To bring this vision to life, we’ll be closed throughout next week. We’ll be sharing updates and sneak peeks along the way, so stay tuned.

“We’ll reopen on Tuesday 21 April with new food, great offers, and an experience for everyone to enjoy. So it’s goodbye for now – see you very soon.”