Today marks the end of an era as Cactus Jacks prepares to close for the final time after more than 20 years in the city.

From birthdays to first dates and work dos, the Mexican bar and restaurant on Water Lane has always got us covered and after tonight, many of us will miss it greatly.

News of the closure was announced by the restaurant through a Facebook post thanking customers for their support. Plans to fill the unit are already in the pipeline.

As we bid farewell to one of Salisbury's most loved restaurants, we'd like to share a few memories from Journal readers and loyal customers over the years.

Dates and proposals

Posting on the Journal's Facebook page, many revealed sentimental memories linked to Cactus Jacks.

Carole Souch said she and her partner went there for their first date 16 years ago. 

Sally Stacey revealed her husband actually proposed there on Valentine’s Day 21 years ago while Janet Davies said that's where they celebrated her daughter's engagement.

Verity Thomas said: "My husband and I had our first date at Cactus Jacks. 

"We've been together for eight years and married for five years."

Music, dancing and shots

Live music, dancing on the tables, frozen beer glasses and of course, shots were also mentioned by customers reminiscing about the good old days.

"The size of that receipt…" joked one.

"[I] used to work here many years ago!! Such fun times!" said Louise Ellis.

And as Katherine Coombes reminds us, never mess with extra chilli.

"One of our party ordered the extra hot chilli to look hard, took one bite and downed a pitcher of water," she said.

They probably weren't the only ones!

Pictures

Happy memories also come with pictures.

Many shared snaps from their time at Cactus Jacks - cocktails and sombreros always a must.

Salisbury Journal: Kim Stephens and friendsKim Stephens and friends

Salisbury Journal: Helen-Marie Onofri's birthday meal at Cactus JacksHelen-Marie Onofri's birthday meal at Cactus Jacks

Salisbury Journal: Barry Stapley enjoying his pintBarry Stapley enjoying his pint

Salisbury Journal: Amanda Loader and Anja JackAmanda Loader and Anja Jack

Salisbury Journal: Adam Cooper of Greenwood Projects having a good time at Cactus JacksAdam Cooper of Greenwood Projects having a good time at Cactus Jacks

What next?

Although many of us will clearly be sad to say goodbye to Cactus Jacks, we can perhaps take a bit of comfort in knowing the site may not be empty for long.

A planning application has already been submitted to extend next door antiques salesroom, Fisherton Warehouse, into the Cactus Jacks unit.

Owners Joseph and Ann Henry have also applied to Wiltshire Council for a change of use and conversion of the first floor showroom to four flats, and for the beer garden to change to private landscaped communal gardens.​

A consultation process is underway and will run until April 20. 

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