A popular café in Bitterne Park is staying open after a deal for new owners to take over fell through.

Ronald Hannan bought the Riverside Diner in 1990 and he was set to sell the café and retire, with the lease changing hands on November 1.

But now the sale has fallen through and the Riverside Diner remains open as usual, though the property has gone back onto the market.

READ MORE: Riverside Diner in Bitterne Park thanks customers ahead of sale

"It's the same staff, same owner, same food as well," said Victoria Hannon, daughter-in-law of owner Ronald who has worked on and off at the diner for 23 years.

"A lot of customers have come in since the first article because they were sad that it was closing.

"A customer this morning drove down an hour with her grandson because she thought it was closing, so we want to make sure customers know we really appreciate their custom."

Evelyn Warren and Victoria Hannan standing outside of the Riverside Diner in Bitterne Park.Evelyn Warren and Victoria Hannan standing outside of the Riverside Diner in Bitterne Park. (Image: Newsquest) As reported, owner Ronald planned to sell the 34-year-old family business to retire, not because the café was struggling.

"We pulled through Covid and all the tough times," Victoria said.

"We've got regulars coming through every day and business is still good.

"But Ron is ready to move on, I've got my own job and we all want to do our own thing, we've all ran the café at one point and been there and got the t-shirt so it's someone else's turn to come in now."

The diner is well-known for their "specials" and their "Almighty Diner" full-English breakfast that uniquely comes served with bubble and squeak.

The Riverside Diner in Bitterne Park.The Riverside Diner in Bitterne Park. (Image: NQ) The ownership at Riverside Diner still plan to sell the café, though the property previously spent eight months on the market before finding a buyer.

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Speaking previously to the Echo, long-standing member of staff Julie Attwell admitted that it was time for the family to let someone else take over.

Julie said: "It’s been a family-run business for 34 years and it’s time now to take a step back. 

"But times are moving, change, let someone come in with fresh ideas and I hope they have a good go of it."