Oven Door's 21 years of business

The couple are the popular proprietors of The Oven Door, in Buckhurst Place, where over the years they have built up a loyal following. Some people even travel regularly from Kent and Surrey to enjoy meals there.

Beth said: "Having got to our 21st, we decided we'd like to thank our customers for their support, so during the past week we've put on a few special surprises."

One day saw the menu reverting back to 1989 prices, with main meals - now 5.75 - costing 2.65 and puddings 90p, and for every lunch sold all week the couple have donated 50p to St Michael's Hospice.

Customers have also been presented with a free tombola ticket with their meals, and so have had a chance to win prizes while they eat.

Beth and John, who have two sons and three grandchildren, both served as caterers in the Merchant Navy and had a restaurant in Peacehaven for four years before settling in Bexhill.

"We love it here, and source as much of our ingredients as we can from local traders," said John.

"The people are so friendly, and we've got to know many of our customers so well that they're almost extended family."

But anniversary or not, the couple's kitchen has been as busy as ever, and among extra tasks this week they even baked their own celebratory cake, decorated to represent the restaurant itself.

Beth said: "It's another mark of gratitude to our customers, They've been fantastic over the years and it's been lovely being able to show how much we appreciate them while also raising money for a good cause."

Bexhill councillor Paul Lendon led tributes to the Olivers, praising their dedication and adding: "They have provided an element of stability which is both an example and to be applauded in such difficult times."