Famous Pie Shop up for sale as hundreds call for it to be saved

For many, the Pie Shop off Westgate is first choice for food after a night out, but concern is growing after the leaseholder, Karen Eccleston, announced she would not be renewing her interest in the business.

Hundreds of people have now taken to Facebook demanding that it be saved.

One customer said: "This is like the worst news at the end of the most miserable lockdown ever! "

Another said: "Gutted!!! Had so many good times here after a night out. Could never beat a good pie, chips and gravy!"

The lucrative shop's lease is up £39,950, with an annual turnover of more than £158,000, such is its popularity.

However, Karen says it will re-open as soon as possible after lockdown and is adamant that it should remain as the Pie Shop.

She said: "I do not want it to close because everyone knows how well known it is.

"The reaction on Facebook has been unbelievable, it's amazing what people have been saying, that it will be the end of Wakefield, that kind of thing.

"But we would not be The Pie Shop if it wasn't for all the customers.

"It was a difficult decision but I'm 53 now and I just want someone to take it over.

"I took out a 15-year lease and it will be 14 years this April.

"It will be a sad day."

Trading for just two-and-half days a week, opening until 5am at weekends, it has never been short of customers.

Synonymous with nights out in Wakefield, customers leave the bars and clubs late at night and form queues outside the Cheapside shop to sink their teeth into the various pies, peas and chips on offer.

Karen and the shop recently appeared on Chanel 4's Tom Allen Goes to Town when the comedian went searching for what makes Wakefield unique.

She said: "I couldn't believe the amount of calls I got after, my phone never stopped."

She says that the shop will be re-opening on May 20, in line with Government guidelines, but the pies are still available to buy from her other shop, Stanley Fish and Chips on Lake Lock Road in Stanley. The pies can also be ordered for delivery to cook at home.

While Karen is hopeful that someone will take over the business, she has not completely ruled out the possibility of staying.

She said: "I want it to stay as the Pie Shop, but if nobody comes along who wants to keep it like it is, then I will have to renew the lease!"

The property is being marketed by business agent, Ernest Wilson.

Anyone interested in taking on the business can call 0113 238 2900.