London's pie and mash makers say Cockney favourite needs special status

Catarina Demony - Reuters - 22/11
Rick Poole grew up in his family's pie and mash shop in London, the oldest of its kind still in operation today. Now a campaign to give the traditional dish protected status is giving him hope his business will continue to flourish for years to come.
LONDON, Nov 22 (Reuters) - Rick Poole grew up in his family's pie and mash shop in London, the oldest of its kind still in operation today. Now a campaign to give the traditional dish protected status is giving him hope his business will continue to flourish for years to come.
Pie with mashed potato and parsley liquor has been enjoyed by the Cockney natives of east London since the first shops appeared there in the 19th century.
Back then, the pies were filled with eels as they were cheap and plentiful in the River Thames.
The eels have long been replaced with minced beef but jellied eels are still available on the side.
"It gives you a good feeling knowing that you are keeping this tradition alive for over 120 years," said 61-year-old Poole, director of M. Manze, who owns several shops including the flagship in Tower Bridge which retains its original green tiles and furniture. The family took it over in 1902.
Poole said protected status would give businesses like his some security as it would stop others from falsely claiming they were making the dish in the t...
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