An Italian family fish and chip dynasty is now in its third generation in Ipswich.

A well-known Waterfront fish and chip takeaway is beginning a new chapter as it has been sold to a local fish fryer through agents Simon Jackaman Associates.

Dario Mariani has bought the leasehold interest in Neptunes Fish & Chips in a parade of shops in Duke Street, and it will be renamed Mariani’s Fish and Chips.

Dario’s grandparents Luigi and Angela came to Ipswich in the 1950s and opened their first fish and chip shop in 1962 in Nacton Road.

Son, John Mariani, also helped with the running of their shops until other business interests took precedence.

John Mariani said: “Mum and dad came to the UK in the 1950s and he did various jobs, including selling ice cream, before opening our first fish and chip shop in Camden Road.

“Mum and dad are helping Dario with plenty of advice on mixing the batter, cutting fish and the best potatoes to select for chips.”

Dario, 29, has worked mainly in hotels and restaurant management until now.

He said: “It is going very well and I am getting plenty of help and advice from my family.”