South Shields family realise dream to open chippie in Ocean Road

Husband and wife team, Bill and Carol Harkus, along with their children Rebecca, 26, Rachel, 28, Sarah, 30, and Liam, 22, have realised their dream to open a fish and chip restaurant and take away in Ocean Road.

They currently run their own successful leaflet distribution company, Pace, which was established in 2015 and works with local companies to get their marketing materials to homes and businesses within the region.

Due to the success of this, they’ve decided to branch out and have taken over the former Burger 31 unit to open their own take-away and 80-cover licensed restaurant, called Fisherman’s Catch, which offers fish and chips, pizzas, kebabs, burgers, salads, breakfasts and afternoon teas.

Although it is an uncertain time for any business to start to operate, especially in the hospitality industry, the family are optimistic that the locals will get behind them and support their latest venture.

Rachel, who is heading up the operation, is delighted with their latest acquisition and is determined the licensed restaurant and take-away will be a success.

She said: “Although the timing isn’t perfect, we were hoping to open at the beginning of the pandemic, we have ensured that this time has prepared us to plan our strategy and make the necessary arrangements to make it a great place to dine on Ocean Road.

“Competition is all around us, but we’re determined to ensure that we’re giving a great experience and serving first-class food and drinks, which will keep the loyal customers coming back for more.

“We’re also offering a delivery service, so if you want to enjoy our great good, in the comfort of your own home, then we can supply that too.”

The venue is spread over two floors and the upstairs can be hired out for private functions, as well as a fully-functional two-storey restaurant at busy periods.

Rachel added: “As a family-orientated company owner, it’s a privilege to grow our little empire and open our second business together. We’re a close-knit family and this is just the icing on the cake for all of us. We’re all so very excited for the future.”

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