End of an era as top faggots and stuffing shop becomes dental lab

But following the shop's closure, retiring owner Nigel Brazier has sold the family business in Halesowen Road, Old Hill.

The store now looks set to be turned into a dental laboratory making false teeth after plans were approved by Sandwell Council this week.

The shop's demise brings a sad end to the business, which Mr Brazier had hoped would continue.

He had appealed for someone to take over, but received little interest.

The 65 year old, who closed the shop in August, said: "The store was profitable and many people depended on it – we were one of a kind.

"But we couldn't find anyone to take over. It was a massive shame and the final week was emotional with many long-time customers pleading for us to remain open.

"I'm afraid it shows a change in the times. People no longer want to run a shop, work the long hours and take the responsibility. It's sad really," he said.

"In the end I've sold the shop for another use, bringing an end to The Cook Shop."

The store was started by Mr Brazier's great grandmother Eve Billingham in 1889.

She used a front room of her home in Old Hill High Street. The business was then taken over by her daughter Mary and husband Joe Priest before it was given to Iris and Bill Brazier and finally to Nigel. Mr Brazier, who has worked at the shop all his life, had four sons, but they found careers of their own and live away from the Black Country. Nine people worked at the shop.

But despite the shop's closure, Mr Brazier hopes the shop's famous food will live on. He is writing a book on the shop's history which will include recipes.

"People are proud of Black Country food. It is simple, but there are secrets behind it."

The shop's faggots and stuffing recipe has been the same for more than 100 years.

It has been kept top secret despite one customer's attempt to analyse the ingredients at a Birmingham University laboratory 25 years ago.

Other popular products served at The Cook Shop included cooked meats and grorty dick.

"I miss serving the customers everyday and seeing them enjoy the food," said Mr Brazier. "But times move on."

Sandwell Council approved the planning application this week.

Under the change of use proposal by applicant Fereshtech Foolady, dentures will be made at the laboratory.

It will be open from Monday to Friday. Two people will work from the site.