A Goodmayes businessman is selling his traditional pie and mash shop after 27 years.

The Cockney Grub House, in the High Road, specialises in east end food including tea, cakes and eels.

Owner Sidney Hamilton, 50, said tastes had changed in the area.

He said: “Everyone likes spicy food because they can’t do it at home, where they can have plain English food.

“It’s a sign on the times. Pubs are shutting every day and traditional food habits have changed.”

But nearby resident and customer Paul Scott, 35, believes there is still demand for the homely fare.

He said: “I think if it’s sold on it should be a similar venture because we have enough things like chicken shops, fast food and betting shops.

“It would be good if it could retain the local character.

“In the Olympics, people might want to sample traditional cuisine.”

Mr Hamilton plans to open a similar caf� further out of London. He does not expect the Cockney Grub House to sell for years.