They say it's not only customers who should be supporting local shops and businesses.

Bryan Mayles and Paul Wharrier, joint owners of the Boat House, beside Ballingdon Bridge, are calling on town traders to seek out local suppliers, too, whenever they can.

Diners at the Boat House, in Cross Street, can feast on vegetables from Sudbury greengrocers, fish hung in Borley Wood Smokery and ice cream from Hadley's in Colne Engaine.

"All our produce is local and that is something very important to us," said Mr Wharrier, who is also the restaurant's head chef.

"We need to keep promoting local businesses – because that's what makes Sudbury so special.

"It was a real shame when EW King's shut and we should all be trying to prevent more independent shops going the same way.

"That is why the Proud of Sudbury campaign is so good."
"We believe in supporting local suppliers. It is amazing what you find when you start talking to people.

"If there are any more out there that can offer us anything then let us know.

"There are so many good suppliers on our doorstep like the Borley Smokery and Hadley's Ice Cream and we want to make the most of that."

In an age when more big franchise chains are moving into town centres, the Boat House owners believe it is time for independent businesses to make a stand and support each other.

"We can all offer something that larger chains can't, and that's the personal touch," Mr Mayles said.

"We pride ourselves on personal service and many of the town's shops will say the same."

Mr Wharrier added: "I went to buy a television the other day.

"I drove around Ipswich and Colchester but, in the end, ended up coming back to Sudbury because here they give you the attention you want.

"That's what makes the town's businesses so special."

The Boat House was originally taken on by Mr Mayles in 1995, but was forced to close in 2000 when work started on the new Ballingdon bridge.

The Boat House re-opened in 2005 and, two years on, the owners have nearly finished the renovations.

Mr Mayles said: "We are nearly there. It was frustrating when we were forced to close but we have nearly got it back up to scratch."

ryan.goad@sudburytoday.co.uk