A WARRINGTON chippy has apologised to customers for what it says are unavoidable price rises in a heartfelt statement.

Plaice Station says it is informing people in advance that it will have to increase prices in order to survive due to the cost of living crisis.

The family-run fish and chip shop, which operates out of the former station master’s house at Padgate railway station in 2007, cited national and world events among the reasons why.

It has also asked customers to not take their frustration out on staff, who are only doing their job.

Posting on social media, Plaice Station said: “To all our customers, we are apologising in advance that we, as a small business, have had to increase our prices drastically in order to survive this awful economic situation.

“Gas and electricity have increased by 45 per cent, only to increase more, and fish is almost non-existent due to the awful war in Ukraine, which has increased supply costs up to 75 per cent.

Potatoes have increased by 30 per cent, peas have increased by 100 per cent, solid oil and vegetable oil has increased by 40 per cent and pies and puddings have increased by 20 per cent.

“Plus rent, wages and all five Government taxes we have to pay regardless, with or without customers.

“We are trying our best, but sometimes our best just is not good enough as these prices just keep on increasing.

“So please do not take it out on our staff or on us. We are trying to keep them in a job and keep our business open.”

While it is not the most welcome of news, many customers greeted the news with ‘care’ reaction, with one commenting: “All businesses will have to do the same to survive.

“Tough times, but if we all pull together we will be fine.”