A popular Portadown chip shop has been left “devastated” after a fire broke out at its premises in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Firefighters were called to Gordy’s II on the Gilford Road shortly after 5am following reports of a blaze at the well-known takeaway.
According to the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS), two fire appliances from Portadown Fire Station and one from Lurgan attended the scene.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used one jet and one hose reel jet to tackle the flames.
The fire, which was believed to have been accidental, was brought under control by 7.16am.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the business has confirmed that it will be closed for the “foreseeable future” due to the extent of the damage.
Posting on social media, the team at Gordy’s II said: “We are absolutely devastated that we won’t be able to open for the foreseeable future.
“In the meantime, please visit Chipped at Kernan for your usual fix. We want to say a massive thanks to the emergency services for such a quick response — and a massive thank you to all our customers. We’ll be back.”
The closure will come as a huge blow not just to loyal customers but to the wider community, where the chippy has earned a reputation for its community spirit.
Last year, Gordy’s II was publicly praised after the business handed out free meals to vulnerable people in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn.
Speaking at an ABC Council meeting at the time, Alderman Tinsley commended the owners for stepping up when people were left without power.
She said: “I want to pay tribute to the local businesses. I was contacted by one business — Gordy’s chippy on the Gilford Road — and they were offering free meals to vulnerable people if I could deliver them out.
“They donated them, and members of the public even contributed money towards more. That really was so appreciated by those individuals who didn’t have electric.”
Many have taken to social media to express their sympathy and have wished the Gordy’s II team a speedy recovery and promised to support them when they reopen.
