Thank you and goodbye.

Tennants Fish & Chips closed its doors for the final time on Saturday 6th April 2024, marking the end of an extraordinary 81-year chapter in our community's history.

Founded in 1943, during the height of the Second World War, Tennants began life at a time when Britain faced uncertainty and hardship. Fish and chips were one of the few foods not rationed by the British Government, and from those early days, the shop provided more than just a meal - it offered familiarity, comfort, and a small sense of normality in challenging times.

Across eight decades, the world changed beyond recognition. Tennants witnessed post-war recovery, social and economic change, shifts in the food industry, and the rapid pace of modern life. Through it all, the shop remained a constant presence, built on simple values: quality food, friendly service, and a genuine connection with the people it served.

Generations of families passed through its doors. Parents brought children, children returned as adults, and traditions were formed that lasted a lifetime. What may have seemed like “just a chip shop” became part of everyday life for thousands - a meeting place, a treat at the end of the week, and a shared local experience.

Even in the most difficult moments of recent history, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Tennants continued to serve its community with the same care and dedication that defined it from the beginning. Its survival through a world war and a global pandemic stands as a testament to resilience, independence, and unwavering community support.

The outpouring of messages, memories, and kind words following the shop's closure has been truly overwhelming and deeply appreciated. It has shown just how profoundly Tennants touched the lives of so many.

While the doors may now be closed, the memories remain - in photographs, stories, and the generations who grew up with Tennants as part of their lives.

Thank you to everyone who supported us over the past 81 years.

Your loyalty, kindness, and shared memories will be treasured forever. Thank you.

An external photo of Tennants Fish & Chips with customers inside.
Gary & Joan Tennant serving customers.
A painted sign stating 'Tennants Retires After 81 Years of Serving Fish and Chips to Long Eaton. Thanks For Your Custom!'.
A banner placed on the glass window, stating 'Thank you to all our customers throughout our 81 years of business xxxxx'.
A photo of Gary Tennant and Hayley Frearson standing in front of a banner, stating 'The Legend Has Retired'.
An external photo of Tennants Fish & Chips, with staff standing behind the counter.
A card with photos of Gary & Joan Tennant and of the shop, stating 'Tennants Are Retiring, Happy Retirement Mum & Dad'.
A cake stating 'Happy Retirement Joan And Gary xxxx'.
A group photo of Gary Tennant, Hayley Frearson, Joan Tennant and Karen Tennant.
A photo of Gary Tennant behind the fryer.
Photo of Karen Tennant serving two customers.
People queueing to visit Tennants Fish & Chips, Hayley Frearson serving customers in the window.
Peter Bearne & Camera Man from ITV, with Gary Tennant in the background.
A family group photo of James Frearson, Darren Frearson, Gary Tennant, Lewis Frearson, Hayley Frearson, Joan Tennant, Karen Tennant, Fee Tennant and Jack Tennant.

Articles

BBC - Long Eaton: Chip shop opened in World War Two to closeDerbyshireLive - End of an era as 'fantastic' Long Eaton chippy Tennants to close after 81 yearsNottinghamshireLive - End of an era as 'fantastic' Long Eaton chippy Tennants to close after 81 yearsNottinghamshireLive - 'Heartwarming' response to Long Eaton chippy's closure as people queue for its final day