A PETITION has been launched to help the owners of Scotland's only fully-vegan Chinese restaurant.

Lotus Vegetarian Cuisine opened in January this year and has already become a firm favourite amongst vegans and non-vegans alike.

Based in Glasgow's Bridge Street, it is run by Eric Chan and Kwan Mui who immigrated to the UK on an Entrepreneur Visa.

Sadly, the couple face having to close their business unless the Home Office grant them more time to complete the requirements necessary to have their paperwork renewed. Following this, they will then be able to apply for settlement in the UK.

They have been unable to meet the requirements within the normal time frame due to delays with the initial opening of the restaurant.

Eric told the Evening Times: "I've spoken to an immigration solicitor as I'm not familiar with immigration things.

"At the moment I'll just persist to do my own thing and carry on with the vegan restaurant.

"I'll try my best to keep going."

A petition has been launched calling on the Home Office to use discretion and allow Eric and Kwan extra time.

The petition, started by Michael Jenkins of Vegan Connections, has already attracted over 2,800 signatures.

Michael stated: "Eric and Kwan Mui have made such a positive impact here in Glasgow and we really don't want to lose them and their restaurant.

"Unfortunately, Eric and his wife were not able to start trading until January 2017 for reasons completely outwith their control and this means that they need more time to ensure that they can meet all the requirements for their visas to be renewed.

"They will be asking the Home Office to allow them this extra time and it is in support of their request for an understanding approach to be taken with regard their situation that we are asking for your support.

"The people signing this petition are therefore asking the Home Office to exercise their discretion in deciding not only the future of Eric and Kwan Mui but the future of their business and Scotland’s only fully vegan Chinese restaurant.

"For anyone who has visited Lotus, they will have experienced the kind and caring people behind the business. Eric and Kwan Mui have become dear friends to many of their regular customers and this is why we feel that in this time of need, we must lend a helping hand to this wonderful family and unique business."

The petition can be signed at change.org/p/support-lotus-help-keep-scotland-s-only-fully-vegan-chinese-restaurant-open