Up Close is an interview series for Biddulph Nub News, talking to local people about their businesses, hobbies, or anything else they want to chat about!

In the latest instalment of Up Close we spoke to Peter Mousikou. Peter and his wife have owned and run Biddulph Fish Bar on King Street for the last 38 years.

Peter, aged 60, spoke to us about what's changed over the years, what it's been like to run a chippy in the time of Coronavirus, and why he's still passionate about fish and chips after all these years.

Read the interview below...

What are your favourite parts about working in a chip shop? Would you say there are any interesting or fun perks?

"My wife and I have owned and ran Biddulph Fish Bar for the last 38 years. We have been serving tasty food at the heart of the community which has allowed us to get to know so many fantastic people, as well as employ a great team of people from the local area. It's fantastic to be able to interact with so many people whilst running my business."

Have you had any particularly memorable customers - either for good or bad reasons? Has anyone ever come in with unusual or really big orders?

"Over the years we have served people of all ages, and with various requirements. From teenagers coming in for a portion of chips to eat as they are out and about, feeding families for a chippy treat or just to give the parents a break from cooking, right through to catering for big events.

"Some years ago there would be darts competitions and "Rock n Chips" live music events at Biddulph Town Hall. We would partner with the events to provide the food."

Do you still enjoy eating fish and chips yourself, or do you try and keep your work separate?

"I am passionate about serving great tasting food with the freshest ingredients, and honesty I still enjoy eating the food my team and I produce. Fresh fish with crispy batter and moreish chips - who could resist that!"

Have you seen many changes to your work over all the years you have been doing it - any changes to the equipment you use, health and safety or the way you do your job?

"The way we operate has changed over the years, health and safety measures have evolved over the years and we ensure we are operating with the most up to date standards to ensure the upmost quality of food production and safety of both our employees and customers.

"We have evolved our menu over the years and added things such as kebabs, (including chicken and doner kebabs), rotisserie chicken, halloumi kebabs and halloumi fries, therefore we have added the necessary equipment to prepare these items to offer a more varied menu.

"More recently, in response to the Covid pandemic, we have added protective screenings, clear foot markings on the floor, and customers and staff are both required to wear masks as per the government guidelines.

We have also implemented a click and collect website and apps for both Apple and Android. This is to minimise contact and waiting times. Customers can select their five minute slot to collect at their convenience."

What changes have you seen in Biddulph during your years working here?

"In the 38 years we have been here, we have seen Biddulph grow from a small to a big town, and more people moving to the area as new housing was developed.

"In earlier years the high street was full of independent business owners; local florists, fruit and veg shops, butchers, clothing stores, newsagents, toy stores, pubs. Sadly over the years many of these businesses have vanished since the move in of larger supermarket and retail stores. "

How has business been during the Coronavirus pandemic - are plenty of people still coming in to pick up their chippy tea?

"Thankfully as a takeaway business we have been able to continue to operate, we know that not everyone has been this fortunate. I believe our takeaway food has offered a tasty treat for people and a break from the daily routine of work, home-schooling etc. Our customers have been great and we would like to thank them for their continued support. "

Also regarding the pandemic, many people have found themselves feeling more lonely and isolated during these times. Has your interactions with customers been able to help you chat and socialise a bit?

"We are still a customer facing business, and whilst we have tried to minimise contact for everyone's safety, we still enjoy chatting to our customers, for some of them they may have not seen or spoken to anyone else that day. We enjoy the interaction and hope our customers do too."

What do you think of Biddulph in general during all your years working here?

"We really like Biddulph, my wife and I moved to the area when we bought our business and raised our four children here. It's been a wonderful community to be part of. "

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