Wetherby Whaler helps celebrate 80th birthday of Fish and Chip 'Champion'
Tuesday 02nd January, 2018
Wetherby Whaler paid a birthday tribute to one of Yorkshire’s true champions of the fish and chips trade, during a surprise visit at its Guiseley restaurant.
Bob Mitchell, who was previously Chairman of the Leeds and District Fish Friers’ Association, was the VIP at the restaurant as he celebrated his 80th birthday with his family.
Bob has been a strong advocate for the fish and chips industry throughout his tenure as Chairman in the 1980s and 1990s, as he used his position to help support those who were starting out in the trade.
The celebration was attended by Bob’s brothers, sister and niece, all of whom have worked in the trade. Collectively, since the 1930s, the Mitchell family have served approximately eight million portions of fish and chips!
Bob’s son, Philip, planned the surprise gathering, with Bob having no idea that his siblings and niece would be in attendance and contacted the Wetherby Whaler via letter to arrange.
Philip Mitchell said: “Dad has worked so hard and done so much for the fish and chips trade in Leeds and the surrounding areas, so we thought it would be the perfect surprise to enjoy a dinner at one of the region’s most well-renowned eateries. It’s great that the wider family have been able to join us, which brought back many fond memories of their time working in the trade. We are grateful to Wetherby Whaler for accommodating us and taking the time to organise the special occasion for Dad, as the family came together to celebrate his momentous birthday – one that he will never forget.”
Caroline Murphy, Director of Wetherby Whaler and Regional Director for the National Federation of Fish Friers, said: “As keen advocates of and a major employer within the fish and chips industry, we were more than happy to welcome Bob and his family to our Guiseley restaurant. Bob has enjoyed a fantastic career supporting many people, with his family also involved in the trade for decades. I hope they enjoyed the experience and we’d be delighted to welcome Bob back again in the future.”