A family-run fish and chips shop in Barnet has temporarily closed after a fire broke out on the same day its founder was admitted to hospital for major surgery.
Firefighters were called to Fresh Fry in Western Parade this morning (October 30) at 9.40am. Two people from the flat above the shops were led to safety by crews. The incident was eventually over by 10.35am.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “A small part of the ground floor shop was destroyed.”
Following the blaze, the eatery has announced it will have to temporarily close. There is no indication when it will reopen.
It follows after the founder was admitted to hospital on Thursday (October 29) for surgery. The family said in a statement: “Our hearts are heavy. Yesterday, our father and founder of Fresh Fry, Sam, was admitted to the hospital for triple bypass surgery. Today, we woke up to the devastating news that the restaurant he dedicated his life to building caught fire.”
“Fresh Fry is his pride and joy, largely because of how much he loves this community and the wonderful customers he serves every day,” the statement continued. “Please bear with us as we focus on our dad’s recovery and begin the journey to rebuild. We hold onto the hope that soon, he will be the one to personally welcome you back through our doors. Thank you for your love, patience, and support.”
Fresh Fry has served Barnet for over three decades, according to the family business, which describes itself as a warm, welcoming fish and chip shop with seating for 50 and a fully licensed bar at 1-2 Western Parade, Great North Road.
The closure is a double blow for a business built around one man — and for the regulars who have eaten there for years. For now, the family’s message is one of patience: the focus is on Sam’s recovery first, and on rebuilding the restaurant he spent his life creating.
More Barnet news: an inquiry is under way in Finchley after a man died when a tree fell on his car during Storm Boelo.
