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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Iona Young

Legendary Edinburgh food truck in park to close for final time after 21 years

A legendary food truck that has called Leith Links home for the last 21 years is sadly closing for the final time this weekend after years of serving the locals hearty food and cheery smiles.

Mike English Food and Snacks are hosting a celebratory BBQ on Sunday, August 6 at the Links to say thank you to all their customers over the last decades as owner Mike is retiring and selling the van.

The dad has been described as an "absolute gentleman" and "one of Leith's legends" even receiving an award from the local primary school for his service to the community.

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Speaking to Edinburgh Live Mike's daughter Megan said: "He’s been working there for 21 years and he was head chef on the oil rigs before starting there.

"He’s very popular for his beef and chilli soup and pakora Fridays.

"My dad has had loads of special memories, St Mary's Primary School next to the van gave him an annual award at one of their assemblies for “services to the community and surrounding area.

"The school kids all sang outside his van for his 60th It’s more than a snack van, it’s more like a community hub."

She continued: "There are regulars there every day enjoying his banter with their rolls and cuppas My dad is gutted to be finishing up but it’s time to retire - his words are 'The memories that he will take away will be the people of Leith.'

The proud daughter shared the news on Twitter writing: "For those who don’t know, my Dad will be retiring from his van after 21 years! We are having a thank you BBQ down at the van, Leith Links, starting at 10am.

"Please feel free to come along! It would be good to see everyone."

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Dozens of locals were gutted about the news and shared memories of being saved many a time from hangovers with a bacon roll.

One said: "Sad times, a Leith institution."

Another said: "Leith Links will be packed that morning. Everyone hungover going for one last Slice n Cheese."

While one added: "I’m going to miss him, his cheeseburger rolls when yer hinging is absolutely amazing."

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