A fish and chip restaurant in York is closing after a quarter of a century of serving up the finest ‘one of each’.
Wackers, the family-run venue on Gillygate, is not reopening after the lockdown.
Owners Dave and Jill Richards are retiring, and the building is set to be redeveloped.
The couple said on Facebook: “It is with a heavy heart and much sadness that Jill and I are leaving Wackers and going to retire, after 14 wonderful years.
“It has coincided with the end of our lease, and although we applied for a new one, the owner has plans to redevelop.
“We would like to say a huge thank you to our fantastic staff who have served us well over the years and our loyal customers, who became great friends over the years.”
Jools Holland a fan
The couple added: “We have some wonderful memories and will miss Wackers immensely.
“However, we will be able to spend more time with our children and grandchildren.”
Wackers was opened in 1995. It seated 200 people, and was very popular – even earning an endorsement from the musician and television presenter Jools Holland who said: “Thanks for the delicious fish and chips.”
The venue was a draw for many day trippers who came in and out of town via the Union Terrace coach and car park.
One happy diner was Ben Bradley, who said: “We’re not from York but we often come down to visit the city from Glasgow and we always have at least one meal in Wackers.
“We even had favourite seats in the top corner.”
However, it will not see the end of fast food on this part of Gillygate. Opposite Wackers, kebab shop Doner Summer says it is opening in winter 2020.