When Kelly and Tim Barnes, just 22 and 19 years old, took over a modest fish and chip shop in Exmouth 25 years ago, they embarked on a journey that would shape their lives and community. What began as a simple business venture has grown into Krispies Fish and Chips, a beloved local institution with three outlets in Exmouth and Exeter employing over 70 people.
To celebrate their quarter-century milestone, Krispies isn’t just marking the occasion—they’re giving back in a big way. On 11 October 2025, all Krispies locations will serve fish and chips for just £5 per portion, with every penny of proceeds donated to HeadsUP, a Devon-based charity dedicated to children’s mental health. Their ambitious goal: raise £25,000 in a single day by selling 5,000 portions.
Kelly reflects, “Opening Krispies 25 years ago felt right then, and it still feels right today. Fish and chips is in our blood.” Tim adds, “Food trends come and go, but people still want fish and chips. We’ve grown because we’ve combined tradition with high standards to meet our customers’ expectations.”
READ MORE: Police Launch Investigation Into Glastonbury Regeneration Project
READ MORE: Bristol Christmas Market 2025: Dates, New Attractions, and What to Expect
The initial years were challenging, with Kelly and Tim doing everything themselves—from prepping potatoes to cooking and cleaning after hours—without employees or financial backup. Their mutual passion and hard work laid the foundation for what Krispies has become today: award-winning, nationally recognized, and a pillar of the community. In 2019, Krispies proudly received the prestigious Fish and Chip Shop of the Year award.
The charity heads the focus of Krispies’ celebrations. HeadsUP provides vital early intervention mental health support to children and young people across Devon. This includes resilience workshops, individual counselling, and assistance during critical transitions such as starting secondary school. The demand for these services far exceeds current capacity, with waiting times up to six months for counselling in Exmouth.
Kelly explains, “HeadsUP’s work aligns deeply with our values. Their support helps children build confidence, manage anxiety, and thrive both at school and at home.”
Supporting the event, Krispies’ staff are volunteering their time, and suppliers have generously donated all the ingredients—ensuring every pound raised goes directly to the cause. The campaign has also engaged local families through a children’s art competition, with eight-year-old Ellyse O’Connor’s vibrant winning design now featured throughout Krispies’ outlets and social channels. Participating children receive complimentary meal vouchers, reflecting Krispies’ dedication to connecting with families.
Tim sums up the spirit behind Krispies: “We’ve evolved considerably, but our core remains the same—commitment to quality, community, and treating people well.”
Kelly concludes, “Fish and chips is what we do, but community is who we are.” On 11 October, residents are invited to join this unique celebration and help turn a beloved local dish into a beacon of hope for children’s mental health.