A family has said that it will be closing the doors of a Co Fermanagh restaurant following the death of their son who was the "wonderful and talented" head chef.
Christopher Oldcroft, from Redwood Park, Coleraine died suddenly on August 11, 2024, and is deeply missed by his family, including his nine-year-old son, and friends who have said that they 'miss him everyday.'
He had been the head chef at his family's restaurant The Moorings in Enniskillen for over seven years with it earning a popular reputation among the local community.
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Following Christopher's passing his family made the decision to temporarily close the restaurant and this week have announced that this decision is now permenant.
In the wake of his death, the family said on Facebook: "We have no words to describe how we are feeling right now. We are just numb and broken
"A lot of you will also know our 9 year old grandson, Jaxon, who has lost his Daddy. He is so precious to us and he is being so brave just now."
In a follow-up post on social media this week, the Oldcroft family thanked all of their customers and staff over the years but they could no longer continue with the business without their "wonderful and talented son".
A post on The Moorings Facebook page said: "As a family we have taken the decision not to reopen The Moorings. All of you who know us will understand why we couldn’t continue without our wonderful and talented son, Christopher, who was The Moorings.
"We have enjoyed an amazing and incredible seven and a half years, and we have had the tremendous honour of meeting so many warm and wonderful people.
"We had the opportunity to share in your family stories and experiences, and from the heartfelt responses we received from many of you, we were, in some small way, part of your lives too.
"Although the food and drink was the mainstay of the restaurant it was also about the hospitality, of receiving a warm welcome and that you felt you were amongst friends. Whether it was your first visit or your 100th we always wanted you to feel appreciated.
"We sincerely thank all of you for your custom, support and craic over the years. We couldn’t have done it without you.
"And with the same sincerity we would like to thank everyone who has worked with us to help deliver our goals and achieve our dreams. Many of you brought your own special talents and skills and were there for us when we needed you most.
"And to our son, Christopher, we love you and we miss you, everyday. Thank you for being our son, our friend and for taking us on this wonderful journey. You’ll be in our hearts and minds forever."
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