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We tried a takeaway from Stowupland Fish and Chip Shop where Ed Sheeran visited with his wife Cherry Seaborn





Back in October global superstar Ed Sheeran surprised villagers at a fish and chip shop – we went back to find out what happened next.

Say what you want about Sheeran, from what I know about him he is a decent guy who despite being recognised all over the would seems to be proud of his home county of Suffolk.

As well as pumping money into Ipswich Town, and regularly watching matches at Portman Road, he often pops up to support local businesses and charities.

Ed Sheeran at Stowupland Fish and Chip Shop earlier this year. Picture: Google and Stefanie Marie
Ed Sheeran at Stowupland Fish and Chip Shop earlier this year. Picture: Google and Stefanie Marie

It was, however, still a surprise when the singer and his wife Cherry Seaborn stopped off in Stowupland, near Stowmarket, to pick up some fish and chips.

A few months on from his visit, Ali Guzel, owner of Stowupland Fish and Chip Shop, is keeping his fingers crossed Sheeran might be back for more.

First time around he chose: scampi, plaice and chips, curry sauce, mushy peas and two cans of drink.

We tried the curry sauce and mushy peas - just like Ed Sheeran. Picture: Suffolk News
We tried the curry sauce and mushy peas - just like Ed Sheeran. Picture: Suffolk News

Mr Guzel, who took over at the shop in December 2022, said often new customers ask him if Ed Sheeran really did visit the shop on the village green – and if he thinks he might come back.

He added: “It will be nice if he comes again, he might do, and then I can have a photo with him.

“I say if he chose our shop it must mean we are very good.”

During Sheeran’s visit, Mr Guzel was busy frying fish which meant he missed out on getting a selfie with the star.

He said: “He was very cool and calm, drinking a can of Pepsi, him and his wife were polite and happy.”

Lots of customers have suggested Mr Guzel put up a picture of Ed Sheeran in the shop, something he hasn’t got around to quite yet – possibly because he is waiting for that elusive new selfie with him.

Ali Guzel, who runs Stowupland Fish and Chip Shop
Ali Guzel, who runs Stowupland Fish and Chip Shop

As well as chatting to Mr Guzel, for a bit of festive fun we decided to sample some of the food that Sheeran and his wife ordered in October.

Heading to the shop on a cold, wet and windy evening in December, I was surprised how busy it was, particularly as we arrived early, at around 4.45pm.

And for the record my nine-year-old daughter said to ‘tell the newspaper that the chips were amazing’.

I cannot disagree – they stayed warm for ages and were complemented by my particular highlight of the meal – the curry sauce.

Chips from the Stowupland Fish and Chip Shop. Picture: Suffolk News
Chips from the Stowupland Fish and Chip Shop. Picture: Suffolk News

The fish was cooked fresh which meant a little wait, while the lady behind the till was kind to my children and was very patient as they waited excitedly for their dinner.

Mr Guzel is now waiting to see what 2024 will bring for his shop, which he said was given a boost by Sheeran’s visit.

Next time I am there I will be keeping an eye out for ‘that photo’ on the wall.