The Wetherby Whaler in Guiseley was host to Mabel Raine and her family as she celebrated her 102nd birthday with her favourite fish and chips.

Mabel decided on the Wetherby Whaler to celebrate her birthday due to its renowned food and good reputation.

Greeted with a bouquet of flowers and complimentary drink, mum of one, Mabel enjoyed her fish and chips whilst listening to pianist Nigel Wears who stayed especially to serenade her.

Born in Bradford in 1911, the former mill girl and school dinner lady was married to her late husband Wilfred for 54 years. The couple’s passion was cycling and they were well known throughout the Yorkshire area for riding their tandem.

Formerly a fan of Harry Ramsdens, Mabel is now a huge fan of the Wetherby Whaler, a Yorkshire based fish and chip restaurant chain that stepped in to save the iconic fish and chip restaurant in Guiseley. 

Mabel said: “I have a lot of family in the Bradford area and going back to the Wetherby Whaler in Guiseley really was like a walk down memory lane for me. I love fish and chips so it seemed appropriate to go back to my roots and enjoy my favourite meal at the same time! 

“I am so grateful to the staff at the Wetherby Whaler; they were very welcoming and went that extra mile to ensure that I really enjoyed my birthday. The food was lovely and the Wetherby Whaler has really worked hard to recreate the atmosphere that the original Harry Ramsden’s used to have.”

Philip Murphy, owner of the Wetherby Whaler, said: “It was such a pleasure to have Mabel and her family celebrate her 102nd birthday with us. Mabel is a lovely woman who loves her fish and chips and we are grateful that we could help her enjoy her birthday celebrations. We have worked hard to create a special atmosphere here in our Guiseley restaurant and we look forward to hosting more celebrations in the future.”