IN 1955, Shamsur Rahman’s father opened up the first Indian restaurant called Taj Mahal in the UK.

It was in the Piccadilly area of London. A few decades later, Shamsur is keeping the tradition going with his own family-run establishment, Sakib Spice. It is not a restaurant but a takeaway situated in Tuckton. Nevertheless it has established an excellent reputation and a strong and loyal client base.

“We did have a restaurant at the premises for a while,” said Shamsur. “But we found it was a distraction so we closed it and just decided to focus on the cooking which is what we are all about.”

So Shamsur and his son Sakib (the business is named after him) are celebrating, with their customers, its 20th birthday this year.

There is everything on the menu that you would expect and much more. And the chefs will also cook you something a little bespoke.

“We have many regulars,” said Sakib, who is studying accountancy at Bournemouth University. Many of them of them have their own particular likes so we always try to accommodate. Many of our customers came here with their parents and now still come as adults themselves. It is nice to have been part of the community for so long.”

The takeaway offers excellent value set meals Monday to Thursday (for example two starters, two mains, rice, nan, chutney and onion salad) for just £12.95. Similar weekend specials start from £16.95. There is free home delivery within four miles for orders over £10. Sakib Spice is open seven days, 5pm-11pm Sunday to Thursday and until 1130pm Friday and Saturday. Outside events for up to 500 people and special occasions at home can be catered for. The takeaway is at 183 Tuckton Road. Call 01202 433933/429832.