A COUPLE who have served fish and chips to customers for more than 40 years have retired.

Margaret and Michael Hazel started their own business when they opened a fish and chip shop in Mill Street, Norton, in 1975.

Five years later a fire started in the upstairs flat which completely destroyed the shop downstairs.

Mr Hazel said: "We were so upset as that was our life. After the fire we looked for another property to continue with fish and chips.

"We eventually found a piece of land in Wood Street which we were going to put a mobile fish shop on until the owner suggested building one."

Television actor Frederick Feast, best remembered for playing the role of Fred Gee in Coronation Street, opened the new shop, as well as sampling the fish and chips.

Mrs Hazel said: "When we opened the new shop we employed a girl called Carole Frederiksen who continues to be a great friend.

"We have had many of laughs throughout the years. I always remembers one night when Carole and I played a prank as Michael occasionally liked a pint in the back of the shop.

"This night we thought it is pay back time as he liked playing jokes, so we tipped half of his beer out and put vinegar in as well - these memories will never be forgotten."

The couple supplied Meals on Wheels for the Malton and Norton Lions Club for 35 years, with their daughter Tracey helping as a little girl on a Saturday.

Mr Hazel said: "We will certainly miss all our regular customers we have had in 41 years of serving fish and chips and would like to say a big thank to those who have kept us going.

"Now it is time to relax and enjoy eating fish and chips from the other side of the counter for a change. As this was so short notice to close the shop due to ill health we didn't get chance to say thanks and goodbye in person to our customers.

"However, we do intend next year to have a get together and a coffee morning in aid of Macmillan and a catch up with everyone."