‘We haven’t had a day off’ - Third-generation fishmonger opens new shop
Fishmonger Derrick Tooke outside his new shop on Mattishall Road, Dereham. Picture: Noah Vickers - Credit: Archant
When a change in ownership meant they had to move from their old premises on Elsing Lane, Silverfins of Dereham started looking for a new home.
Last month, the fishmongers found one at Holly Farm on Mattishall Road.
In a time when many businesses are closing down, owner Derrick Tooke, 70, is confident that Silverfins will thrive from its new shop, and said that they’d brought in customers old and new.
“My grandfather started the business in 1947 when he bought a trawler at Lowestoft,” said Mr Tooke.
“I did over 30 years at sea before my son took over from me. He’s now the skipper and does deep-sea fishing.
“We first set up in the Metamec clock factory. In those days, there were no supermarkets or home delivery services, and we had one small van.”
During lockdown, Silverfins delivered freshly-caught fish, crabs and seafood to customers across Norfolk and beyond. “We can’t stop - we haven’t had a day off.” said Mr Tooke.
