By Derbyshire.News
Toll Bar Fish & Chips in Stoney Middleton, one of Derbyshire’s most beloved chippies, has issued an emotional message to customers — explaining that they have “absolutely no choice” but to increase the price of fish due to soaring supply costs.
The small, award-winning fish and chip shop, known for its traditional approach and charming character, has seen overwhelming support from locals after posting a heartfelt explanation on Facebook.
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Fish Prices “Almost Double” in Two Years
In a post that quickly gained traction, the shop wrote:
“We are paying almost double what we were 2 years ago and the shop can no longer absorb the increase… This year alone, fish has increased £100 a box. So, so sorry.”
The message included a graph showing the dramatic price surge in wholesale fish supplies — a trend that’s hitting independent takeaways hard across the UK, but especially in rural areas like the Peak District where costs are already higher due to logistics.
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Locals Show Support (and Puns)
Despite the difficult news, the community response was warm — and in typical British fashion, full of humour. One commenter, Brian Rice, responded:
“Oh my Cod! What has happened to this Plaice? I’ve Haddock up to here with this!”
Others were more direct:
“I don’t care, your fish and chips are the best!” wrote Deborah Hull.
“I’m sure everyone will understand, such amazing fish and chips,” added Lesley Parker.
There were political jabs too, with one user blaming post-Brexit fishing policies for the price hikes.
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A Wider Problem for Local Takeaways
Toll Bar’s price rise reflects a national crisis facing chip shops. Industry reports suggest that wholesale cod and haddock prices have risen by over 60% in just 18 months, driven by global supply chain issues, fuel costs, and fishing quotas.
But unlike big chains, small independents like Toll Bar don’t have the margin to absorb these increases — and many are now being forced to choose between raising prices or shutting their doors.
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More Than Just a Chippy
Toll Bar Fish & Chips isn’t just another takeaway. It’s a Derbyshire institution, with glowing reviews, a loyal following, and even the Queen (or at least a cardboard cut-out of her) behind the counter.
It’s a place that captures the spirit of small-town hospitality — where regulars are greeted by name and holidaymakers return year after year.
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“Oh My Cod!”
“Nothing Else, Just the Fish”
The shop was careful to point out that only fish prices are changing, and that they are doing everything possible to keep the rest of the menu affordable. Their message wasn’t corporate — it was personal.
“So sorry,” they repeated twice. And judging by the outpouring of support, their honesty struck a chord.
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What Do You Think?
• Are price hikes justified if it means keeping local businesses afloat?
• Have we all taken cheap chippy teas for granted?
• Should government or councils step in to support small, independent food outlets?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments or over on Derbyshire.News. And if you’re near Stoney Middleton, maybe pop in and show them some support — even if the fish costs a little more than it did last year.
Walter1999
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