AFTER serving up countless portions of fish suppers, popular fryer Steve Ramsbottom has quite literally had his chips.

Steve, 55, who has run Steve's Fish and Chips on Bolton Road, Ramsbottom, for the past 30 years, said the time had come to call it a day. He says he now plans to retire and enjoy his new-found leisure time.

He said that although he had enjoyed running the business he was looking forward to enjoying his retirement.

Steve said: "I have really enjoyed it.

"I've been doing this for my whole life and my father before me and I've seen people come in here who are now married with children of their own. I think I've become a bit of an institution for many people."

Divorcee Steve, who lives in Sunnybank Close, Rossendale, said he planned to spend his retirement relaxing and playing one his favourite sports. He is a member of the Lancashire Over 55's badminton team.

He said he had made the decision to retire following the death of his son, Matthew, who died six years ago aged 17.

He said: "A tragedy like that is a life-changing time and I thought I would give up the business while I still had some time to be able to enjoy myself. Life is too short to be working all the hours until you drop and that's why I've decided to call it a day.

"I've sold the business as a going concern so, hopefully, the people that have been coming to me for many years won't miss out on their traditional fish and chips"

Steve, who has another son Mark, 27, a joiner, will serve up his last meal on Saturday.