A BELOVED fish and chip shop has announced its “heartbreaking" closure despite only having opened just over a year ago.

The Norfolk Fish Bar, in North Station Road, Colchester, has announced its permanent closure, due to “unforeseen circumstances”.

Founded by Justin Chung, the eatery opened in February 2022 and it immediately became a hit with residents and visitors alike. 

Many foodies in the city considered it one of the best fish and chip shops in Colchester, thanks to its quality, pricing and vegan products.

However, in a shock announcement published on the eatery's social media pages, bosses at the fish and chip shop have said they have made the difficult decision to close down.

Gazette: Chippy - The Norfolk Fish Bar, in North Station RoadChippy - The Norfolk Fish Bar, in North Station Road (Image: Newsquest)

The statement reads: “Dear Norfolk Fish Bar customers.

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce our permanent closure.

“Over the year, it has been our pleasure and privilege to serve you.

“Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, we are unable to continue operation.

“We would like to express our sincerest gratitude to each and every one of you who has supported us throughout this incredible journey.

Gazette: Fancy - the Norfolk Fish Bar is designed in a smart chrome aesthetic with its logo shining in a cool, neon turquoise glowFancy - the Norfolk Fish Bar is designed in a smart chrome aesthetic with its logo shining in a cool, neon turquoise glow (Image: Newsquest)

“Your patronage, loyalty, and feedback have been invaluable to us, and we are truly grateful for the trust you placed in us.

“This decision was not made lightly, and we have explored all possible options to stay open. However, circumstances beyond our control have forced us to make this difficult choice.

“It is a heartbreaking moment for us.

“Thank you for being a part of our journey, and we wish you all the very best.”

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Gazette reporter George King recently reviewed the Norfolk Fish Bar, giving it glowing praise.

He said the cod had “gloriously golden, crispy batter and boasted a beautifully creamy texture”, adding the chips were “perfectly cooked” and the battered sausage full of “un-tampered quality”.

Gazette: Meal - During a recent visit to the Norfolk Fish Bar reporter George King opted for a large cod, large chips, a John Coleman Butchers battered sausage and some curry sauceMeal - During a recent visit to the Norfolk Fish Bar reporter George King opted for a large cod, large chips, a John Coleman Butchers battered sausage and some curry sauce (Image: Newsquest)

Speaking after the review, owner Justin said: “What makes us unique and special is we will always try to source the best and freshest local produce possible - sometimes our fish will be caught in Mersea.

“We try and support local businesses too. We use local butchers and for the potatoes we use local farmers as a first priority.

“We are big on sustainability – we make sure all our fish is sustainably fished to ensure fisheries continue to thrive in marine and freshwater habitats.

“All our used oil gets collected weekly which is used to create high quality biofuels for transport. Even to the small details of all our packaging is fully recyclable.

“We care about what we do and what happens around us and I think that is what makes us special and unique.”