ONE of the oldest family-run corner shops in East Lancashire has had a major makeover – and the famous sweet section is staying put.

Patel’s Corner Shop, based on the corner of New Bank Road and Granville Road, Blackburn, was established by Abdul Patel back in 1982 and is now run by his son, Nizam, and daughter, Faz.

The shop which is described as the ‘original Patel’s’, has had minor interior renovations over the past three decades but now the shop has been extended outwards. Nizam said: “The shop has always been the heart of this community and whilst we have seen the street change a lot Patel’s was always here and always open. People loved the old shop and I do hope they will love the new look too.

“We have had a few facelifts at the shop over the years but this was a complete renovation with an extension to the front of the building.

“We can now stock more goods and a range of household items and it has given us more shop floor space.

“The front counter has moved to the side of the shop to allow us to stock more ranges such as frozen foods and dairy products.” And the much-loved ‘penny sweet section’ is staying put.

Nizam said: “People wanted to know what was happening to the penny sweet section and we are glad to say it is staying. Parents who used to visit the shop as kids when my dad ran it now come back with their kids.”

The shop renovation took place at the same time as an extension to an adjoining launderette which the family also manages. The siblings were keen to thank their parents who established the shop 36 years ago.

He added: “Our success if down to our parent’s prayers and support and we would like to thank the local community for continued support.”