A popular fishmongers is to take over a prime town centre unit previously occupied by the doomed JC Rook & Sons.

Bosses at Jenkins & Son Fishmongers in Deal will be relocating to the former butcher shop further along the high street.

They announced the switch on their Facebook page this week and say they are “beyond happy to share the brilliant news”.

While they say “we cannot guarantee an opening date” they aim to “make it special for our amazing customers”.

In the post, they stated: “After what feels like the longest 18 months, we finally have the keys.

“At this point, we cannot guarantee an opening date or tell you the many ideas the team have created to make it special for our amazing customers.

“As a team, we are beyond happy to finally share the brilliant news with you all, it sure has been a long time coming but it is O-FISH-AL.”

The Mayor of Deal, Cllr Oliver Richardson (Con), says he is delighted by the news and says a “vibrant high street is key to us all”.

“It is heartening news that one much-loved high street business is being replaced by another,” he said.

“Jenkins & Son is a mainstay of Deal and we wish them continued success.

“In the consultation for our town plan, our high street was praised by residents and empty premises were a concern, a vibrant high street is important to us all.”

JC Rook & Sons had 11 stores across Kent when it fell into administration in March 2022.

It was one of the county’s oldest and biggest butchery firms, employing 130 people for more than 55 years.

The demise of the chain was blamed on a fall in trade throughout the Covid lockdowns.

Chairman of the Deal and Walmer Chamber of Trade, Peter Jull, expressed his happiness at the Jenkins & Son move.

“The chamber has been aware for some time that this move was likely and only held up by legalities,” he said.

“It is pleasing to see a primary shopping frontage unit remain in predominantly retail use and wish our member the best in his new venture.”