Derby Fish Bar Owner Expresses Humility Following Parliamentary Recognition for 50th Anniversary

The proprietor of a fish and chip shop expressed that he felt “humbled” by the mention of his establishment in the House of Commons, which celebrated its 50th anniversary. Ronnie Christodoulou, who operates Sussex Circus Fish Bar in Chaddesden, Derby, stated that he was two weeks old when his mother and father took over the business in July 1974. The local MP, Catherine Atkinson, offered congratulations to the shop and Mr. Christodoulou in Parliament on Thursday for its five decades of frying. The Leader of the House responded by saying it “sounds like one place we should all be visiting”. In response to the commendation, Mr. Christodoulou told BBC Radio Derby: “We feel truly humbled.” He added, “It’s a team effort. We just keep our heads down, do the best we can, and that is the end product.” When questioned about the secret to their success, he replied: “Keep everything simple, use the best ingredients, use the best suppliers, have the best staff. “Be blessed with what you have got and appreciate your good customers.” Mr. Christodoulou mentioned that he acquired his trade skills from family members. He further stated, “We chip and fry as we go along,” and emphasized, “No chemicals are used whatsoever because that’s what we have been taught from mum, dad and other people in the industry.” He concluded, “You have always got to try and produce something better than yesterday.” When asked about his local MP’s opinion of his chips during her visit, he responded: “Obviously, she loved them, didn’t she?” Atkinson, the Labour MP for Derby North, addressed the House of Commons, stating: “Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating Sussex Circus Fish Bar in Chaddesden for its 50 years of frying, and its owner Ronnie, who was two weeks old when his parents opened it?” She continued, “With one in seven of us choosing to have fish and chips for Christmas dinner, a debate on the enduring contribution of chippies to our national culture and cuisine and as a focal point in our communities would be timely, allowing us to discuss how we can support and thank those high street food businesses that serve us at this time of year.” Lucy Powell, the Leader of the House, commented: “I think we can agree that we are all a bit partial to some lovely fish and chips… so can I congratulate them as well.”