THE owners of a popular restaurant with rooms at the heart of Aberlady have announced it is time for them to “duck out”.

Malcolm and Fiona Duck have been at the helm of Duck’s Inn, which has 23 en-suite bedrooms plus restaurant and bar, for 19 years but will step aside next month.

A post on social media announced their departure as they thanked customers for long support.

In the video, Malcolm said: “After 19 years of making memories at Duck’s Inn in Aberlady, it is time for Malcolm and Fiona to Duck out!

“A massive thank you to all who have been through the doors and to our fantastic staff over the years.

“We will hand over the reins on September 22, so our last evening service will be on September 20.

“Please come and support us and help us say goodbye between now and then.”

Mr Duck said to the Courier he was unable, at this moment, to disclose who was taking on the premises or what their plans were.

Reservations for rooms at Duck’s, which was previously called Kilspindie House, cease on September 20.

Mr Duck, 62, founded the acclaimed Duck’s at Le March Noire restaurant in Edinburgh in 1988, having previously served as a Royal Marine in the Falklands War.

He also did outside catering when the opportunity came up to take on what would become Duck’s Inn.

The father-of-two, who is chairman of Gullane Area Community Council, which also covers neighbouring Aberlady, hopes to stay in the area beyond next month.

In the video on social media, Mr Duck, who is a well-known figure in the county golf scene, said: “Built in 1638, we have been the custodians of the building for 19 years and taken it as far as we can.

“It is now time for the next chapter, which we have no doubt will be great for Aberlady and the golfing community of East Lothian, Scotland’s Golf Coast.”

A number of touching posts have been left on social media by visitors and former members of staff.

Mr Duck described receiving and reading the messages as “emotional” and thanked everyone for their kind words.

Councillor Jeremy Findlay, who previously chaired the community council, also paid tribute to the Ducks’ efforts over the years.

He said: “Malcolm has made a huge contribution to East Lothian, not only as a hotelier but also having put a lot of work into the Scotland’s Golf Coast brand and the work this has done for tourism in the county.

“Latterly, as chair of Gullane Area Community Council, he has ensured that this remained relevant to the community at large.

“I wish him all the best in whatever direction life next takes him but am sure he will remain committed to contributing to the success of the county he has made his home.”