Top chef praises bosses despite hospitality business failing

Jimmy Brereton led the catering team at The Bank on High Street in Delph

A popular head chef has praised a pair of dedicated brothers for work opportunities they provided for more than 20 staff despite their business closing suddenly during the week.

Jimmy Brereton led the catering team at The Bank on High Street in Delph which, along with The Milan Bar in Lees and other catering outlets, ceased trading.

But Mr Brereton posted on social media: “I’d just like to thank Darren and Craig Kerr from me and all the staff for the opportunity they gave us.

“They always put their all into their businesses, put the staff before themselves and made sure nobody was left short.

“A big thank you from me to all the staff past and present who have made it feel like I had a second family.

"I’ve made some great memories along the way which I won’t forget.

“And one last big thank you to all the customers who came in for the food and drink we served up, you will be missed.“

He declared: ”My main aim was to just create simple food that was kept at a high standard consistently and I’m just happy you guys appreciated that.

“With the rising costs of everything, businesses are struggling so all I ask from anybody reading this is: support your local businesses where you can.

"When you go somewhere and think the price is too steep, it’s for a reason.

"A lot of places are just trying to survive right now they have bills/rent/wages/produce/tax/vat to pay for and unfortunately if they keep increasing then so will the products and services they sell.”

And he added: "If anybody owns a local business/restaurant that need any staff please message me as I’m trying to help as many people as I can to try find a new job.”

In an open-handed statement last week from the venues – The Bank is licensed to Craig Kerr, whose brother Darren is his business partner – the brothers outlined the reasons for closure in a Facebook statement.

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