Marlow Bottom's Oysters Fish and Chips to celebrate 15 years

Gav Singh, who runs Oysters Fish and Chips in the village, has told the Free Press that whilst the milestone day on March 8 will see customers attend to get their fish supper along with having a slice of cake, there are ‘genuine worries’ for those in the industry.

Since the coronavirus pandemic began in 2020, coupled with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, many chippies across the land have been badly impacted.

There is a cabin that customers can now use if they visit Oysters in Marlow Bottom (Image: NQ)

This is due to rising energy and electric costs, whilst fishing for cod in Russian waters is now prohibited.  

A decision that could cause devastation for several businesses, fishermen and women are now catching fish in areas near Scandinavia – making it pricier.

However, despite all the issues, Gav is remaining positive as he wants to celebrate with those who have supported him since he opened his business in March 2009.

He told the Free Press: “I honestly can't believe it’s been 15 years – that time has flown by.

"The customers have been great as they’ve been coming to see us despite the chip industry taking several hits.

It's been a popular hit with customers (Image: NQ)

“Around 2,000 shops have closed in the last 12 months and some are heading for bankruptcy simply because of the cost.

“The price of potatoes, fish, and electricity have all gone up.

"If I’m honest, it does make me concerned for the next few years.

“But I’m very grateful for all the help I’ve gotten, and the customers have been wonderful.”

One thing those visiting the Brucewood Parade on March 8 will see is that the shop has now got a designated set-in area for those who want to stay and eat their fish supper.

Whilst not physically connected to the shop, the nook is just a few yards away and was built to aid customers who fancy staying onsite to have their lunch or dinner. 

He continued: “This is costing us more money to have at no expense to the customer, as we want them to feel welcome.

“When it gets busy, people are everywhere so this sit-in area should allow people to eat their fish and chips in peace before heading home.

“We want to be here for as long as possible, but we’re working off less margins than we've ever worked off to stay in business.”

Finally, one supporting local businesses, he concluded: “Your High Street needs you need more than it's ever.

“Of course, people should spend their money how they please but to be fair to Marlow Bottom, we’ve got a dog groomers, a café, and some shops which are all independent which, of course, includes us as a local fish and chip shop which now obviously offers a certain area to sit-in and eat.”

The shop will celebrate its 15th anniversary on March 8.