A YORKSHIRE fish and chip restaurant is making a move across the Pennines to open its first East Lancs branch in Blackburn.

Established in the White Rose county in the 1970s, Mother Hubbard’s Family Fish and Chip Restaurant will open next week in Preston New Road.

About 20 jobs will be created at the traditional, family-style restaurant, which is being operated by Blackburn company Euro Garages as a franchise.

There are also branches of the restaurant in Scarborough, Bradford and Halifax.

It will be based in New Park House, the former home to popular Lancashire restaurant Mr Fu’s.

The new 2,200 sq ft restaurant has recently been completed and will seat approximately 80 people.

It is due to open on Wednesday or Friday next week, with an official announcement due in the coming days.

Salim Hassan, head of operations at Euro Garages, said: “It’s a great location and there is a demand for this type of brand in Blackburn. There is not a restaurant like this that can seat as many people in the town and there is a real gap in the market.

“We are only using the best Icelandic haddock and we are offering an experience that no one else is.

“The deal for us to take over the franchise was made several months ago, along with the deal to lease the building.”

Tony Duckworth, president of the Blackburn with Darwen Chamber of Trade, said: “It’s a long-established restaurant location and I wish them all the best.

“I’m delighted companies are showing confidence in Blackburn and that jobs are being provided.”