HUNGRY customers are flocking to sample some fresh fish and chips out of a newly-renovated vintage van.

The Old Smithy fish and chip shop in Leece Lane, Roose has expanded their business by opening a new takeaway which operates out of a Citroen HY 1955 van.

Known as 'The Smithy Van', the vehicle was converted last year to serve up fish and chip shop favourites like sausages, scampi and fish cakes whilst on wheels.

The van, which is based at the Milk Hut on the Coast Road on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, will also provide food favourites at events, with next year's calendar already filling up.

Calvin Addenbrook, who has owned The Old Smithy for two years, said the van has proved 'hugely popular' since launching last month.

The 30-year-old said: "We had the idea a couple years ago and decided to just go for it in summer.

"There's nothing like this that anyone's doing around the area so there's definitely a gap in the market.

"We saw the van and thought let's go for it and bought it from a trader in Essex."

Mr Addenbrook said he may consider purchasing another van if the business venture continues to take off.

He said: "We've already had quite a few bookings already for this year for engagements, weddings, christenings and private parties.

"It's proving really popular, we've been getting loads of enquiries.

"We're looking for another staff member for the van because it's proving so popular.

"We feel really proud that the hard work is paying off.

"We might end up getting another van if it takes off."

The Old Smithy also has another business opening in the coming weeks attached to their fish and chip shop in Roose.

Known as 'AJs Bistro', named after Mr Addenbrook's son Asher Jay, the eatery will sell mainly burgers and pizzas from a new and 'exciting' menu.

Mr Addenbrook revealed that work had been completed on the site and they are weeks away from launching the new site.