KENDAL’S Bob and Bert’s restaurant has built a strong reputation in the town centre since first opening in June this year.

The latest expansion of the nationwide franchise, Bob and Bert’s has seen outlets open in Ireland and Scotland, with Kendal being its second to open in England.

Praised for its efficient service, atmosphere and high-quality customer service, the staff in Kendal have created a strong customer base for the business in the town centre.

Store manager Jodie Johnson said: “It’s all gone by so quickly since we first opened but it’s been a brilliant time for us.

“It’s amazing how quickly it has grown. We had a lot of regular customers and we wanted to be more than just a tourism hub. We wanted to really integrate with the community and we are building on that.

“We try to keep busy and work sometimes comes at us so fast that you need to keep a smile on your face while you’re working. Talking with the customers goes a long way with that.

“It keeps the smiling going.

“Monday mornings for us are really busy, then Tuesdays seem to be a bit quiet before it picks up as we get closer to the weekend. Monday, Friday, and Saturday are our busiest days.

“I started with them when they first opened. I was working at the Brewery Arts Centre as the assistant manager and I was ready to go for the next step forward.

“We had a set up team when we opened who travel around the country and get each one started. They stayed with us for the initial weeks before moving on, I think they’re looking to open one in Preston next. We also have one in Lancaster.

“Altogether there are 23 stores across Britain. There are three in England, 14 in Ireland and five in Scotland.

“We’ve done our best to uphold the standards they set and taught us everything we know.

“Bob and Bert’s are mostly in coastal towns and touristy areas but less so in big cities. Its how we keep hold of the community spirit.

“We have a fantastic team here and we’re looking forward to keeping busy with the Mountain Festival where we’ll be serving some food much like we did at the Kendal Torch Light festival to the performers, kids and their families.”