How did you get into the industry?
I’d been working as a flight attendant on private jets for over 22 years and doing beauty treatments as a sideline. Covid hit both of these industries hard and I was one of the unlucky ones who got zero help. I wasn’t entitled to any grants or support, yet not allowed to work either. It was an awful time and I was adamant that I was going to change my income stream to one where I was in control again. So I’ve gone from flying Hollywood A listers to running a mobile fish and chip van, but I love it!
What’s your favourite food?
I love all kinds of foods, but I’m particularly fond of Italian and Thai cuisine.
Is there a food you won’t eat?
I’ve been a pescatarian for about 12 years now. I stumbled across an abattoir video online and swore from that day that I wouldn’t eat meat again. I don’t preach to anyone about it, each to their own, but not for me anymore.
Where have you had the best fish and chips?
Growing up in a small rural village near Grimsby, we’ve been spoilt for excellent fish and chips. There used to be an amazing eat in chip shop called Cox’s in Freeman Street that we used to go to as children. Goodness it was delicious and brings back wonderful family memories.
What side is a must with your fish and chips?
I have to have mushy peas and scraps with lots of salt and vinegar. People call scraps batter bits, scrumps and goodness knows what else, but it’s scraps around here!
If you could open a fish and chip shop anywhere, where would it be?
LA or Sydney. I love both cities and I can’t cope with the cold, damp weather we have in the UK.
Do you have a favourite restaurant?
I lived in Berkshire for most of my career, moving back to North Lincolnshire a few years ago. I haven’t found a new favourite restaurant around here, but I love a pub meal with a roaring fire and a large glass of red. Oh God, I think this is starting to sound like a dating profile!
What is your go-to drink?
I like my red wine like I like my men – full bodied and rich! Ha!
What dish reminds you most of your childhood?
I’m not just saying it but fish and chips were a staple for us as a family treat growing up. My late dad worked on trawlers in his teens and early twenties so it has to be haddock. I think that he would be amused and proud that I’ve got into this industry.
What is your guilty food pleasure?
Sticky toffee pudding. I’d normally have a starter rather than a pudding but if it’s on the menu, I’m having it!
What’s been your weirdest food combination?
When I first started flying, it was with Japan Airlines. I lived in Japan as part of my training and learnt Japanese too. I used to go out for a Japanese meal called Okonomiyaki. It’s a savoury pancake/omelette they cook in front of you. It can be meat, seafood or veggie, it was so good!
What one piece of equipment would you love to purchase for your business?
At the moment I operate from a trailer, but now the business is growing and doing well, I hope to get a Pro Fry van early next year.
Recent Posts
- Win a duct clean with P100
- Takeaways back in growth as restaurants’ at-home orders rise again in October
- Salt Fish & Chips scoops The Peter Hill Award 2024
- J-Henry’s joins forces with local businesses to batter popular high street foods
- Lamb Weston opens new potato production facility in the Netherlands
