Vegan restaurants are closing down across the country because of a lack of interest in solely plant-based food, analysis has found.

While there was a much-publicised vegan "boom" over the last two years, with chain restaurants launching animal product-free dishes, outlets which serve only plant-based food have struggled.

Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive of UK Hospitality - which represents the restaurant, bar and hotel sector - said some vegan restaurants could be struggling because they don't appeal to the wider market.

She said: "Although veganism is gaining prominence and demand for vegan products seems to have soared, actually only a very small percentage of people identify as vegans, just 1.16 per cent in 2018 according to The Vegan Society.

"Other figures show that around 21 per cent identify as flexitarian so, although they may be looking to reduce meat consumption, they don't identify as vegan and choice is still a major issue.

"Successful businesses thrive when they adapt to changing consumer tastes and offer variety.

"By offering exclusively vegan food, some venues may have made it more difficult for themselves to reach the majority of customers."

Miami Burger - which sold 100 per cent vegan burgers - has closed in Reading after only opening in January.