Having known Mike Rose for a number of years, through his involvement with the Burnley Association of the NFFF, I was delighted when he asked me to attend the opening day of his newly refurbished shop.  Situated on the outskirts of Blackburn the Holly Tree not only serves the local populations, but also attracts a lot of passing trade.

Mike is an avid Blackburn Rovers fan (someone has to be!) so it came as no suprise when I saw the blue and white colour scheme develop, firstly with the exteror paint work and then the blue and white tiled interior. The finish is excellent and the tiles give a crisp and clean look to the shop.  

Hopkins Range Logo

The Holly Tree has recently won several national awards, and was a finalist in this years Fish and Chip Awards in London, and with this success came higher demand, To cope with the increased trade they needed to get a more efficient range and opted for a Hopkins High Efficiency range.

Councillor Cottam - Deputy Mayor of Blackburn test drives the new range with NFFF 

legend Arthur Parrington

Councillor Cottam, the Deputy Mayor of Blackburn, was on hand to man the range, and cut the ribbon declaring the shop open.  He commented "it is great to see a shop investing in their business during such a tough economic climate".  The Deputy Mayor was clearly impressed with the new look of the Holly Tree.

The Deputy Lady Mayoress was intregued by the array of pies and savouries on offer and was treated to a Blackburn delicacy the "John Bull", a savoury mince and onion mix (with a secret ingredient)  sandwiched between two slices of potato and battered. I have yet to try one, but will do on my next visit!

Holly Tree logo on the range front

We wish Mike, Julie and their team every success for the future, their new look and range will serve them well.