(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
A couple who have run a food truck business in the same County Durham shop park for 20 years have reflected on the "rollercoaster ride", including seeing three high street giants come and go next to their van.
Derrick and Stacey Hope have navigated the ups and downs of owning the food truck at the Fylands Drive car park in the town.
Opening up their business when it was originally next to big brand Focus, the couple, who have been together for 25 years, have seen Poundstretcher move into the store before closing down last year and making way for Wickes to open later this year.
Derrick and Stacey Hope, who have had the D&S van for 20 years in what will be the Wickes car park, Bishop Auckland (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
Derrick, who was brought up in the food trade from the age of 12, began trading with just a converted horsebox until making the upgrade to a full truck.
He said: "The business has been like a rollercoaster ride; we've enjoyed days of having loads and loads of customers.
"Then sometimes we're stood around, especially when there's no one occupying the big shops next to us."
"We've also had to battle with the likes of Greggs and other big names.
"As an independent, it's difficult to try and keep up in this climate."
Despite having to compete with other food businesses, Derrick has credited loyal customers from Darlington, Newcastle, Sunderland, and Durham with keeping D&S afloat.
"Our regulars are always there for us," he added.
"We're part of the community. We've done a lot for the community and give over 70s freebies and NHS discounts."
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For the couple, who run the truck every day of the week apart from Monday, it's hoped that when Wickes moves on to the site later this year, the big brand will help them out by bringing in more customers.
Currently, Derrick says that the rent on the food truck is £10,500 a year, on a lease for five years, but is hopeful that Wickes customers can bring in punters to the D&S van.
"We still offer sandwiches and burgers for £3.50, which does undercut other places; we still serve the community," he added.