Key Highlights :
It was a sad farewell for Margaret Rigby, owner of Rigby’s Chippy in Bolton, who has decided to close her doors after 41 years of business. The chip shop, located in Deane Church Lane, has become a much-loved institution in the local community with customers coming from all over to enjoy its traditional fish and chips.
The closure of the beloved chippy comes after Margaret suffered a mini stroke which affected her balance. Although she initially put the shop up for sale, there were no final offers made and it is uncertain whether it will ever be a chippy again.
Speaking of her decision to close the shop, Margaret said: “It’s a sad farewell and I will really miss everybody, but through ill health there was no other way. My daughters Andrea and Diane have been really good.”
Margaret has seen many people come and go over the years, and her customers became like family to her. She even had the pleasure of hosting Bolton legends Paddy McGuinness and Peter Kay who have both become fans of Rigby’s Chippy.
Margaret recalled the time when Paddy McGuinness came to visit her while he was doing a competition for Top Gear: “I’m friends with Paddy. He was doing this competition for Top Gear with another presenter. They had to be in their car for 24 hours and they turned up for their dinners. I was there with my walking stick, and they shouted what they wanted.”
At Christmas, Margaret would make Christmas dinners for regulars on the street who didn’t have anyone to spend the day with. The dinners were complete with a glass of wine and some cake.
Margaret said: “I would sit down once everyone had their dinners. But over the years less people came as people passed away. I know I couldn’t do it anymore and there was no better time.”
Margaret has since moved to a retirement home and is looking forward to spending more time with her family and friends. The chippy even gained national attention after appearing on the BBC.
It is a sad farewell to a much-loved chippy which has been a part of the Bolton community for many years. Margaret Rigby’s legacy will be remembered by so many people who have enjoyed her fish and chips over the years.