A popular pie shop hit by arsonists nearly six months ago was due to reopen its doors today after a £60,000 re-fit.

Stacey's Pie Shop in Timberlog Lane, Basildon, was completely gutted following the fire in January.

Owner Terry McDowell was devastated and had to decide whether to close the family business, which he has owned for 23 years, for good.

The 48-year-old from Little Burstead said: "It was still smouldering when I arrived and it was just gut wrenching to see everything you have worked for more than 20 years go up in smoke.

"I did think about giving up but considering it is a family business I decided to carry on."

Now the shop has been completely re-fitted and revamped and was today due to open up for business again.

Published Tuesday, June 24, 2003

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