The family behind a thriving bistro on the Norfolk coast are the new owners of the neighbouring fish and chip shop. 

Couple Gayle and Nicholas Deary, aged 49 and 50 respectively, opened Beach Rock Bistro along Beach Road in Sea Palling in 2021.

It has built up a strong reputation for its tasty dishes using local produce, including fresh seafood caught along the Norfolk coastline. 

Eastern Daily Press: There are picnic benches outside The Mermaids Catch in Sea Palling Picture: Denise BradleyThere are picnic benches outside The Mermaids Catch in Sea Palling Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Newsquest)

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When the adjoining Beach Rock Fish & Chip Shop closed in December 2023, the pair decided to take it on.

Mrs Deary said: "It made sense for both businesses to be run by the same family and to have consistent opening hours - both places complement each other but still have a distinct offering." 

Eastern Daily Press: You can also have the fish and chips plated in the neighbouring bistro in the evenings Picture: Denise BradleyYou can also have the fish and chips plated in the neighbouring bistro in the evenings Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Newsquest)

The chippy has been renamed The Mermaids Catch and it has now reopened after an extensive refurbishment, including new equipment and a blue colour scheme. 

There are picnic benches outside and some bar stalls inside, with the option to tuck into plated fish and chips in the evenings at the bistro.

The menu at the chippy includes cod, haddock, scampi, loaded fries, fresh local crab, pies, cauliflower wings, pizzas and much more, with gluten-free and vegan options and a children's menu too. 

Eastern Daily Press: The new logo for The Mermaids Catch chippyThe new logo for The Mermaids Catch chippy (Image: Newsquest)

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The family's association with Sea Palling goes back a century and the couple's three children, Elsie, Harrison and Max, help out with both businesses.

Before opening the bistro in 2021, Mrs Deary held an HR position in a catering company and Mr Deary worked offshore. 

Eastern Daily Press: L-R Nicholas and Gayle Deary with their son Max inside The Mermaids Catch in Sea Palling Picture: Denise BradleyL-R Nicholas and Gayle Deary with their son Max inside The Mermaids Catch in Sea Palling Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Newsquest)

Mrs Deary added: "The reviews of The Mermaids Catch online so far have all been five stars and we have been overwhelmed with the support from people in the village.

"They are very pleased to have their fish and chip shop back." 

The Mermaids Catch is open from 12noon to 7pm seven days a week.