A FISH and chip shop has closed down after 43 years in the city.

Mediterranean Fish Bar in Broad Street, owned by the Yiacoumi family, served its last battered cod and pickled eggs earlier this month, and customers have taken to social media to pay tribute.

The takeaway's Facebook account posted a goodbye message on June 1, saying it was "very sad" to announce that was the last day it would be trading.

"We are so sad that this is the case, but all good things must come to an end," it said. "We would like to thank all of you for making it possible for us to last so long throughout the years.

"We appreciate all of the good memories, but today unfortunately, we have to be calling it a day.

"It has been a pleasure, with love the whole Mediterranean fish bar family and staff," it added.

Customers flooded the post praising current company director Savvas Yiacoumi and his team.

Maria Kalispera said she was "sorry to hear" of the closure but told Mr Yiacoumi to "relax and enjoy some you time" while Stephanie Lawson said the chippy "has so many memories with me and my sister, I’m gutted".

Lily Ioannou Dear said: "What a shame you are closing,but I do understand your decision.

"The catering business is a very stressful and tiring job. We grew up next to you. Time to enjoy life now. Take care to all of you."

Beth Farmer said: "What a shame, will never forget this place as I have the best memory ever from this place: my daughter, Marci, and my grandchildren.

"Shame you never got to meet them all, good luck for your new venture."

Nicola Gandy said: "Very sad news, such a fantastic chippy and loved going in on a Saturday with my mum and dad and my daughter Olivia."

The fish bar made the news two years ago this month after a batch of mushy peas, which had been accidentally left cooking after hours, caught fire and the fire service had to come out and save the day.

At the time, Jack Yiacoumi said a friend walked past the premises and heard the smoke alarm and called him.

But by the time he and the family had got to the business firefighters had already extinguished the fire, with three fire engines and 10 to 15 personnel at the scene as a precaution.