Star readers desperate for investor to secure Burchalls long future

Originally launched as a butchers shop by Joseph Burchall and merged as a bakery with his wife Elizabeth, Burchall's first opened along Church Street in St Helens town centre 184 years ago.

Making the short switch to Westfield Street in 1921, Burchall's is frequently mentioned as one of the most loved businesses in St Helens and has become famous for its juicy pork pies and quality meats.

Although the bakery still gets lunchtime queues and sells its tasty pies to local pubs and wholesalers, owner John Burchall, who took over the business from his dad in 1995, admitted that things have been more difficult in recent years as the town centre has struggled with declining footfall.

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Rumours clarified by owner

One of Burchall's famous pork pies (Image: St Helens)
As rumours began circling on social media that Burchalls was to close in the coming weeks, the much-loved piemaker confirmed to the Star that this is not the case.

However, the business owner, who recently turned 75, admitted that he has told staff that he will be retiring at some point in the future.

John, who also spoke to the Star about his hopes and concerns about St Helens' £90m regeneration plans, said that he would like an investor to come and board to take over the business.

However, if no investor is to be found, this could spell the end of the 180 year old family business.

As news of John's plans were clarified by the Star, dozens of readers took to social media to share their appreciation for the business, with many hoping an investor can secure the long-term future of the business.

Star readers share thoughts on Burchalls

Burchalls bakery, on Westfield Street (Image: St Helens)
Chris Hilton said: "Should easily find an investor for me! Cottoms or Pimbletts should merge with Burchalls. There's my call."

Robert Duckworth said: "Bad news if [Burchalls closes] for those of us who love Burchall’s pies. You never know, in a few years time somebody might revive the brand but make pies that taste nothing like the original."

Gillian Tinsley wrote: "Sad for us [if no investor is found]. But the gentleman has given years of top quality pies. [It would be] sadly missed. His staff team and the ladies are always ready to serve."

Terry Hobin said: "I would have to say that’s great news [the bakery is not closing imminently], the pies are impeccable."

Louise Long said: "I love their pies, the nicest pies in town."

Derek Cooney said: "Worked with a St Helens lad that used to bring shanks and pies into work for us on a Friday morning from Burchalls they was lovely. He always said the only thing that’s changed at Burchalls since the war is the price."

Alan Jones said: "Should have a statue in St Helens of John."

Norman Atherton wrote: "How much does he want for the recipe!"