Peter's Fish Bar is back after fire

But after an eight-month hiatus, Peter's Fish Bar of London Road is once again open for business.

Currently run by Alex and Dao Lai, Peter's has been a popular fish and chip shop for many years but the disaster brought their business to a sudden halt. The fire, caused by an electrical fault on December 18, almost forced them to write off the shop.

However as Mr Lai says: "We are not quitters. We are fighters."

He told the Observer that thousands of pounds and solid commitment had bought about their return - with a brand new look but the same warm welcome. One regular customer who has been with Peter's for six years reckons that: "The food is even better than before."

There are several good luck cards stacked up at the back of the restaurant.

Mr Lai commented: 'The support has been brilliant. It's not just about the money. It's about the people."

After an eight-month break he knew it would be difficult to start again.

He said: 'I am a little rusty. We always knew the first four weeks were going to be hard... and there was no advertising."

But supportive friends and customers set up a Facebook page to anticipate the return and spread the word.

Since the accident, staff tried to find jobs at their other branch in St. Leonards but they weren't able to take them all on. The familiar faces have now been welcomed back to Bexhill along with new posts available too.

Mr Lai says: "Business is improving but we are not rushing. We want to take time and make sure things are perfect."