Welsh Town Mourns the Loss of Beloved Chippy Owner
In a heartwarming tribute to an iconic figure in the community, the Welsh town of Rhyl is mourning the passing of Les Pidduck, the beloved owner of Les and Rita’s Fish Bar. Les, who sadly passed away at the age of 86, had been an integral part of the town, running the fish and chip shop alongside his wife for an impressive 56 years. The shop, located on Wellington Road, has been a staple in the area known for its exceptional quality and service, remaining a family-run establishment since its establishment in 1968.
Tributes and condolences have been flooding in from the local community in memory of Les Pidduck. His daughter, Kay Pidduck, took to Facebook to share the heartbreaking news, describing her father as a remarkable man. She expressed how Les was not only a loving husband to her mother Rita for over 62 years but also a devoted father to her and her sisters Joanne and Sian. Kay fondly remembered her father as a proud and loving grandfather and a fantastic father-in-law.
Kay also reflected on her father’s adventurous life, which began at the age of 15 when he ventured to sea with Cunard. His experiences included multiple voyages to New York and a period managing The Shoreline Hotel in Kinmel Bay. Before venturing into the family business, Les gained valuable experience working at Johnny Thompson’s chippy in Manchester. In 1968, Les and Rita’s Fish Bar was born, with Les at the helm, marking the beginning of a longstanding culinary legacy in the town.
Over the years, Les Pidduck’s dedication and hard work have left a lasting impact on the community. Former staff members have shared touching messages on social media, praising Les for his leadership and mentorship. Many fondly remember him as the best boss they ever had, highlighting his kindness, sense of humour, and unwavering support. The legacy of Les and Rita’s Fish Bar is not just in its delicious offerings but in the family atmosphere that Les cultivated among his employees and customers.
As the news of Les Pidduck’s passing reverberates throughout Rhyl, the community comes together to honour his memory and the legacy he leaves behind. The outpouring of tributes on social media is a testament to the profound impact Les had on those who knew him. His commitment to quality, service, and camaraderie has left an indelible mark on the town and the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing him. In this time of mourning, the people of Rhyl stand united in celebrating the life of a remarkable man who brought joy to so many through his passion for serving up the best fish and chips in town.
The loss of Les Pidduck will undoubtedly be felt throughout the community, but his spirit and dedication to his craft will forever linger in the memories of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. The legacy of Les and Rita’s Fish Bar will continue to shine brightly, a beacon of excellence and community spirit that Les Pidduck embodied throughout his remarkable 56 years at the helm. As Rhyl comes together to mourn the passing of a local legend, the enduring impact of Les Pidduck’s legacy will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who had the privilege of being touched by his warmth and generosity.