Cuckfish due to open in Cuckfield in July 2019

After two years the new fish and chip shop on Cuckfield High Street is finally opening. The shop – named Cuckfish - was beset with various difficulties, including planning and utilities supply, but owner Mustafa Dilek and wife Jan are now expecting to open the restaurant at the end of the month.

Mustafa, who has owned a kebab shop in East Grinstead since 1993, was drawn to Cuckfield’s village life and the surrounding countryside after having driven through it many times and was reminded of his childhood growing up in a village in Turkey. This inspired him to open a traditional fish and chip restaurant that reflected the character of the village.

“I’m really looking forward to being part of this community and getting involved,” Mustafa said. After launching a competition to find the perfect name he was delighted to have over 300 entries, including seven suggesting ‘Cuckfish’.

The first person to have given the name will receive a £50 voucher for the restaurant and the other entries suggesting the same name will enjoy a £25 voucher.

Although opening times are still to be confirmed, Mustafa is expecting to make good use of the seated terrace during the summer.