MasterChef winner Kenny Tutt's flagship Worthing restaurant Pitch closes

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Popular Worthing restaurant Pitch, owned by MasterChef winner Kenny Tutt, has closed its doors.

The restaurant, in Warwick Street, has been shut for good with ‘economic struggles’ blamed.

A letter to a member of staff from independent business advisory firm Quantuma, which has been seen by the Worthing Herald, referred to liquidators being appointed for Pitch Foods Ltd and informed the member of staff their contact of employment was terminated as of Monday, July 31.

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An automatic reply to an email sent to the restaurant read: “Thank you for your email, sadly Pitch is now closed due to the current economic struggles. We would like to thank you for supporting our journey here at Pitch.” Mr Tutt told hospitality website Restaurant that the business’s financial situation had become ‘untenable’ and had been ‘treading water’ since the pandemic.

Pitch in Worthing's Warwick Street has now closed. Picture by Eddie MitchellPitch in Worthing's Warwick Street has now closed. Picture by Eddie Mitchell
Pitch in Worthing's Warwick Street has now closed. Picture by Eddie Mitchell

Despite this, the closure came as a surprise to many, with hundreds of people taking to social media to share their memories and sadness over cancelled reservations.

Three-time rosette-winning chef Johnny Stanford, who recently opened fine-dining restaurant Tern on Worthing Pier, also offered his support.

In a Facebook post, he said: “It’s always heart wrenching when we see a fellow restaurant having to close its doors.

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“Our best wishes to Kenny and Lucy as they steer their next steps.”

Kenny Tutt and wife Lucy outside Pitch. Picture by Derek Martin PhotographyKenny Tutt and wife Lucy outside Pitch. Picture by Derek Martin Photography
Kenny Tutt and wife Lucy outside Pitch. Picture by Derek Martin Photography

A further post on Tern’s Facebook page said: “Throughout August, we invite anyone with a Pitch gift voucher to join us for our 5-course tasting lunch menu.