For more than 21 years, Golden Valley Cantonese & English Takeaway has been part of the Lanchester community. Run by husband and wife Winnie and Guang Chen, with help from daughter Cristal, it has become a firm favourite with locals and customers from further afield.
The family originally comes from Fuzhou in southeast China, a city known for its rich food culture, fresh ingredients, seafood, delicate flavours and traditional soups.
After first running a fish and chip shop in Manchester, the family moved to Lanchester, where they quickly settled into village life. Their children attended the local school, and after more than two decades, they now consider Lanchester home.
Guang is the chef, while Winnie and Cristal look after customers and prepare orders. The menu offers a wide choice of Cantonese and English favourites, with the family choosing collection-only to make sure food reaches customers fresh and at the right temperature.
Their loyal customers come from across the area, including Durham, Sacriston and Consett.
After 21 years, Golden Valley is much more than a takeaway. It's a family business that has become part of the fabric of Lanchester life.
Words and photographs by George Ledger, Communities in Focus
