Rocket & Rye, one of the newest additions to Cowbridge High Street, cannot open for outdoor dining as planned, the owners have announced.

Ceri and John Cook have been trying to open their restaurant focussed on high-quality local produce for months now.

They initially tried to open in October but were stopped by the firebreak, and then again in December when the Christmas lockdown prevented them.

The couple had been excited about opening on 28 April for outdoor dining, but a visit from a council officer has put a stop to that plan.

"We have pushed and pushed to be ready, but subsequently we have had a visit from the council today who have informed us the cover for the garden area is unsuitable under current Covid restrictions," read a statement on social media.

"As you can imagine this has caused us considerable issues and upset.

"We have looked at various options, but the Welsh weather is so unpredictable, and we want you all to be able to experience Rocket & Rye at its best.

"Therefore, we have been forced to take the decision to instead open our doors from Tuesday 18 May when indoor hospitality returns. There will still be the option to dine in the garden, however you can now also selected dine inside too. These bookings are now live online here.

"If you already have an outside dining booking with us, we will be in touch directly via email to rearrange your booking, or in the mean time feels free please feel free to edit your booking via your confirmation email or email us directly at [email protected].

"We are so sorry for any inconvenience caused this was not the news we were hoping to bring you.

"Thank you so much for your continued support, and we look forward to welcoming you to Rocket & Rye from the 18 May onwards."

The couple have always dreamed of opening a venue in Cowbridge.

Speaking to Nub News at the end of last year, John said:

"It was either that we let it pass us by and never get the opportunity again, or do it even in the middle of all this, and work it out.

"We're hoping that playing the long game works out."

In the meantime, Rocket & Rye is offering Rocket Boxes – home delivery packages offering a taste of what is to come.