North Elmham fish and chip shop Beck's has great reopening

Matthew Beck reopened the village chip shop in North Elmham - between Dereham and Fakenham - after its former owner, Ian Betts, closed it in November because of soaring energy, gas and rent prices. 

And since Beck’s Fish and Chips started frying on March 14, Mr Beck, 33, said he had been "blown away" by the public's response.

Matthew Beck, during his time as shop manager at Platten's fish and chip shop in Wells (Image: Denise Bradley)

"The support we have had from the community has been amazing and I couldn't ask for a better few weeks,” he said.

“All customers have been very supportive, and we’ve had a lot of brilliant feedback.

"Everyone is generally pleased that the shop is open again.

"I'm really pleased and proud of the team. I know there's still a lot of hard work ahead and I'm looking forward to the challenge."

Mr Beck, who lives in Fakenham, has previously managed Platten's in Wells and Eric's Fish and Chips in Thornham.

The Fish and Chip shop while it was under the previous owner, Ian Betts (Image: Aaron McMillan)

He said that although the rising cost of living was a concern, he still felt this was the right time to "challenge himself" by opening up his own takeaway.

Mr Beck said he now felt “a lot more relaxed” thanks to the first few positive weeks, as he was settling into the routine of the new business. 

He said: “It's been a real pleasure seeing so many customers coming through the door and enjoying our food.” 

But what have been the most popular orders at the new chippy? 

Mr Beck said traditional favourites like large cod and chicken burgers were still winning the day. 

He added: “In the short term we will just look to continue providing a quality product for the community and as a team, we will grow and become more confident in every aspect.”