An Indian sweet shop which has been closed for weeks after its founder died has reopened.

Virdee Stores in Arthur Street, Gravesend, shop was shut following the passing of Hardish Singh Virdee last month.

Hardish’s ‘mithai’ legacy will be carried on under the management of his wife Surinder, daughter Gurpreet and son-in-law, Aran.

In a joint statement on behalf of the family, Gurpreet and Aran said: “In his honour and in his memory, and with Wahe Guru’s guidance and blessings we will continue to serve you all.”

Hardish founded the sweet shop with his father in 1968, becoming the first Indian sweet store in the south east.

The shop soon became a hit within the community, receiving both national and international recognition.

Hardish died peacefully at his home surrounded by his family last month.

His passing left shockwaves among the community as hundreds paid tribute to beloved “Uncle Ji”.

The family added: “We will never forget the tremendous outpouring of love that you have all shared for dad and how the grief was felt not just by his family but across the wider community that he served and cared for so deeply.

“His wonderful legacy belongs to us all.”

Virdee Stores will continue to serve food they make daily on site, selling a variety of sweet and savoury Indian snacks including besan, barfi and samosas.