AN OLDHAM restaurant has announced it will not be opening today. 

But far from it being for any negative reason, staff at Istanblue Royton will instead be shutting up shop to head to the British Kebab Awards in London.

The restaurant is up for Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year at the 2022 awards, which is celebrating its 10th ceremony tonight.

Posting on social media yesterday, the restaurant stated: "Dear Istanblue Royton lovers.

"We would like to inform everyone that unfortunately we will be closed tomorrow (1st of march) as our staff are attending the 10th annual British Kebab Awards in London.

READ MORE: Istanblue wins big at British Kebab Awards

"However, we will be back open on Wednesday, hopefully with an award!

"Thanks, Istanblue Family."

Other awards up for grabs tonight include Best Newcomer, Best Kebab House and Best Takeaway.

Judges for the awards are LBC presenter James O'Brien, Unite assistant general secretary Steve Turner, Samson Sohail from Cobra Beer and sales director at Galliard Homes, David Galman.

The awards website describes the event as "a reflection of the kebab industry’s significant contribution to the UK economy and British culture in general". 

It added: "The awards welcome a host of celebrities, prominent politicians, journalists and most importantly the nation’s hard-working restaurant workers for an evening of celebration."