Banksy chip shop to remain shut over summer despite ‘overwhelming’ reaction

The fifth piece in the Banksy animal series was unveiled on Bonners Fish Bar in Walthamstow, east London, on Friday.

A Banksy artwork depicting pelicans eating fish, painted on the side of Bonners Fish Bar, on Pretoria Avenue in Walthamstow, east London

A chip shop says that it will remain shut until September, despite the “overwhelming” reaction to a Bansky artwork being added to its sign.

The fifth piece in the Banksy animal series was unveiled on Bonners Fish Bar in Northcote Road, Walthamstow, east London, on Friday.

It sees one bird stooping down to scoop up a fish on the takeaway’s sign, while another is tossing one in the air.

The fish and chip shop announced in July that it would close from August 1 until September 5.

On Monday, an Instagram post said: “The last few days have been a whirlwind, thank you to all who have sent such kind words, comments and messages.

“We’re so sorry if we haven’t replied, as you can imagine it’s been extremely overwhelming!

“We’re over the moon that Banksy decided to choose our little fish and chip shop in wonderful Walthamstow and love the design.

“Contrary to some beliefs, we didn’t ask him to do this, but are very grateful he did!”

They also thanked Local Labour MP Stella Creasy, Waltham Forest council and local street artist Mark McClure from Wood Street Walls for helping to keep the artwork protected.

A woman poses for a photograph by a new artwork unveiled by Banksy, depicting a rhinoceros which looks as though it is climbing on top of a car (Lucy North/PA)

“Thank you to the security team who have been keeping watch, we hear you’ve been doing an amazing job,” the post added.

“Fish and chips will be waiting for you when we reopen.

“We’re loving seeing all your photos and videos with the shop and the Banksy art, and once again are immensely grateful for all your love and support.

“Looking forward even more to serving you all after our break from the 5th of September.”

Following the artwork’s arrival, Banksy has continued to unveil more pieces every day.

His latest artwork sees a rhino mounting a silver Nissan Micra, with a traffic cone on its bonnet, on Westmoor Street in Charlton, south east London.

His first piece, revealed last Monday, depicted a goat and was followed by silhouettes of elephants, monkeys, a wolf, pelicans, a cat and fish, which have all popped up in various locations across London.