A Glasgow restaurant is closing for two days following the death of its founder.

Akbar's on Sauchiehall Street will reopen at 5pm on Friday, October 18 after the recent passing of 56-year-old restaurant boss Shabir Hussain. 

Specialising in Indian cuisine, Hussain opened the first Akbar's in Bradford in 1995 and soon expanded to Glasgow and other cities including Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester and Newcastle.

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Akbar's confirmed that all 10 of their restaurants will be shut until Friday evening.

The chain said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Shabir Hussain, founder of Akbars Restaurant Group.

"All restaurants will now be closed and will reopen on Friday 18 October at 17:00 BST.

"Please remember Shabir Hussain in your prayers. May Allah (SWT) grant him the highest rank in Jannah and bring peace and strength to his family during this difficult time."

A tribute was also paid by the Asian Food and Restaurant Awards (AFRA) team who said Hussain 'transformed' the British Asian food industry with his 'passion, vision and dedication'.

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They said: “We are at a loss for words to describe the sadness we feel.

"Shabir Hussain was not only a close family friend, but a source of motivation and dedication to everyone who knew him. His passing leaves a void that can never be filled.

“We will miss you, Shabir. Your legacy will live on in our hearts, and your contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.”