BURGER bar owner Hakan Keskin is to hand over the spatula to staff member Sally Newport after 24 years of keeping Didcot well fed.

The father-of-three is taking a break from catering and Keskin’s Snack Bar, in Market Place, has been bought out by member of staff Mrs Newport.

Mr Keskin, 53, from the Fleet Meadow estate, took over Bilko’s Burger Bar in October 1989 and renamed it after himself.

He said: “It’s been hard work over the years but it’s been rewarding too and I have seen lots of changes in Didcot — I had lots more hair when I started!

“I feel like I have done my bit for Didcot and I’m going to take a break for a few months, although I might go back into catering at some point.

“We have served thousands of loyal customers with our food, including bestsellers – burgers and breakfast rolls.”

Mum-of-three Mrs Newport, an employee of 10 years, said: “Hakan deserves a break and I have taken over the lease. I’m carrying on a Didcot institution.”

She will be helped by daughter Kayleigh, 21, and, in keeping will tradition, will carry her name – Sal’s Snack Bar.