End of an era as Harry Ramsden’s looks to close Britain’s most famous chippy

Harry Ramsden started selling fish and chips from a hut in Guiseley in 1928 but last night company bosses said the restaurant was struggling in the depressed economic climate and talks had begun on its proposed closure.

Joe Teixeira, chief executive officer of Harry Ramsden’s, which has a number of other restaurants, said: “Whilst the Harry Ramsden’s brand remains strong nationally, it is not immune from the challenging economic environment.

“The Guiseley restaurant is making a loss and needs a considerable investment before it could potentially become profitable again.

“This has been a difficult decision that has not been taken lightly, especially given the wonderful, affectionate support Harry’s in Guiseley has enjoyed from its customers and staff.

“But we have to face the economic reality that it is loss-making. I appreciate that this news will be deeply upsetting and stressful for our staff.” Subject to a 30-day consultation period, the 24 staff will be offered alternative jobs elsewhere in the business but compulsory redundancies cannot be ruled out.

The company is reviewing other potential sites in Yorkshire that may be viable for new Harry Ramsden’s restaurants.

There are also plans to expand the brand extensively throughout the UK, creating a significant number of new jobs, and for a refurbishment of the current estate.