The founder of a popular West Cumbrian fish and chip shop has announced he is stepping away from the business after helping build it from the ground up.

Ben, the owner and head fryer at SALT in Seascale, revealed on social media that his final shift at the shop will be on July 11.

The businessman said he had been involved in every aspect of the venture since first spotting the building in 2021 and turning it into a fish and chip shop.

Announcing his departure on Facebook, he wrote: “So, I’d like to announce that I (Ben) am leaving SALT with my last shift being the 11th July.”

Reflecting on the business, he added: “SALT has been my baby and every element about the shop is related to my decision-making which was never really supposed to be the case.”

Ben said he had originally planned to manage the business rather than work behind the fryers, but became heavily involved in the day-to-day running of the shop.

He said: “Most will know that it has mostly been me behind the fryers as well as doing everything else in the background.”

The fish and chip shop will continue to operate under new management, with Seascale resident Graham Evans taking over the day-to-day running of the business.

Ben said: “Thankfully SALT is here to stay and I’m really happy to officially let you know that Graham Evans will now take over full operation.”

He described Mr Evans as “a wonderful chef” who had worked at high-profile venues across Cumbria and beyond.

Addressing speculation about the future of the business, Ben added: “The shop has NOT been sold, so I still have something to do with SALT, but this will be Graham’s independent operation.”

He said he now plans to focus on a number of renovation projects as well as his Gosforth-based outdoor activity business, Marra Bikes and Boards.

In the post, Ben also thanked his family, staff and customers for their support over the years.

Paying tribute to his team, he wrote: “I look at photos of what the building used to be and how it has transformed, I read about the awards we received, magazine articles, my features on the radio, celebrity visits and mentions by people in media, but none of them make me as proud as you guys.”

He added: “Thank you so so much and I know each and every one of you will thrive in life.”

Ben will continue working at SALT until July 11, when he will officially hand over operations to Mr Evans.