The Chancellor of the Exchequer was in Alderley Edge today to officially open the New York style deli at Tower Garage.
George Osborne joined customers, friends and relatives of the Higham family to celebrate the grand opening of Aldeli.
The round showroom, which was commission by the Total Oil Company in 1960 as a showpiece filling station, has been transformed into an American deli serving a range of sandwiches and bagels, including salt beef and pastrami sandwiches, salads, smoothies and frozen yoghurt.
Speaking at the event George said "It was a great pleasure to accept this invitation to reopen this building as a wonderful deli. It's an iconic building and what's amazing is that 40 years on it's still a wonderful building.
"I can already see that this is going to be an absolute magnetic for the people of Alderley Edge. At a time when we've got all sorts of economic difficulties it's great to see people investing and building a business like this."
Stephen Higham said "With time the building proved to be impractical and with the massive downturn in car sales the decision was made to find another purpose for what has become a local landmark.
"We have created a unique eatery both in appearance and menu. There is nothing on the menu I would not be happy to serve in my own home. Our food and drink is to a very high quality and at extremely competitive prices. Our bar and kitchen is circular and all on show, you see what you get. There are no dirty corners, in fact we have already been inspected and have a pending 5 star rating.
"Over the years several businesses have come and gone in the area, many due to the fact that there is a perception that the streets in Alderley edge are lined with gold and you can rip people off. They do not realise that the reason most people are wealthy is due to their hard work and they will not be parted with their money for inferior goods or services.
"Our family have lived and worked in the village for over 50 years which I hope is a testament to our good business values. Together with my daughter Ilana we intend to carry on serving to the highest standards."
Photos: George Osborne with the Higham family. Dave and Sue Oakes, from Wilmslow, with their 1958 Aldsmobile.
