There is nothing quite as comforting when times are difficult than a good old-fashioned fish and chip supper — and two of Keswick’s takeaways have stayed open throughout the latest lock-down to help feed the locals.
The Kingfisher, in Main Street, run by twins Andy and Steve Clark, is open all week, from lunchtime and into the evening providing a traditional takeaway menu for the people of Keswick and the surrounding villages.
Andy said: “ We are here to support the locals and give a bit back as they were really supportive when we had a fire straight after the first lock-down and had to close again for weeks.”
The chip shop had shut in March because of the first UK lockdown and was trading for just 24 hours as restrictions eased in May before fire swept through the popular takeaway and eat-in premises.
A blaze broke out in the kitchen range and firefighters from Keswick and Cockermouth spent two hours bringing it under control.
In mid-July, the cleaners were finally allowed in and the painstaking task of rebuilding the interior began.
The twins used local contractors wherever they could and all rallied round to get them back up and running
But they couldn’t buy a cooker off the peg and it was August before they could reopen,
Andy and Steve admit it is quiet during the day, but keeps “ticking over” in the evenings.
“We are running on far fewer staff with many furloughed.
“The traditional fish and chip supper is the most popular order – but our own Cumberland sausage is too.”
The twins hope to remain open until the latest lockdown is over and they can welcome all customers back to the take-away and restaurant.
The Lakes chippy in nearby Bank Street opens its doors four days a week, from Wednesday to Saturday between 4.30pm and 7.30pm, but the owners admit it can be quiet on weekdays.
Stephen Mason and his partner Paula Franks run the business and, as they are from the same household, they cook and serve the takeaway meals themselves.
Stephen said: “We follow the COVID guidelines with people wearing masks inside the store and observe the social distancing guidelines.
“We have our regulars who come mainly on a Friday for fish and chips, but our home-made range of pies and southern fried chicken are also ordered regularly.
“We are here to provide a service to local people and would make a plea for them to come out and support us if they can.
“We are just watching the news and waiting to hear when restrictions may be eased.”
The third Keswick chippy, The Keswickian based in Market Square, has remained closed during the current lockdown.
