Great Yarmouth really comes to life in summer. In the first of a series looking at what makes the town tick during its busiest period, Joe Norton spoke to our famous market chip stalls.

From Dearnos to Carr's, visitors in Great Yarmouth aren't short of options when deciding where to go for a cone of chips.

While the popularity of some of the town's main attractions has faded in recent years, the tradition of market chips remains as strong as ever.

James Rose, 53, owner of Dearnos said working on the Market Place during the summer was one of the highlights of his year.

"There's nothing quite like seeing the market full of people enjoying their chips," he said.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Carr's chip stall. Picture: Joseph NortonCarr's chip stall. Picture: Joseph Norton (Image: Archant)

"We take great pride in our chips and I think people like the fact we don't try to complicate things.

"We know what we are good at and stick to that."

Mr Rose who co-owns the chip stall with his partner Tracy Manning, said they have three times as many customers during the summer months compared with winter.

The stall has been running in Mrs Manning's family for more than 50 years.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Great Yarmouth's Market Place is thought to have existed since the 11th century. Picture: Antony KellyGreat Yarmouth's Market Place is thought to have existed since the 11th century. Picture: Antony Kelly (Image: Archant)

The couple believe it's the customers' familiarity with the stall which maintains their popularity.

Mr Rose said: "People like a friendly face and consistency.

"We are all about the consumer experience and take pride in delivering the best service.

"We really care about our customers and the lives they are living."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: James Rose, 53, owner of Dearnos chip stall. Picture: Joseph NortonJames Rose, 53, owner of Dearnos chip stall. Picture: Joseph Norton (Image: Archant)

The 53-year-old said he spends the first six months of the year planning for the summer which includes calculating the number of potatoes he will need to meet the increased demand.

Mr Rose admitted he wasn't keen on employing temporary staff during the busy summer months as he wanted to maintain the relationships customers had built up with his staff members.

He said: "I prefer to employ people for the weekend at the start of the year and then increase their hours during the summer.

"That way people build up friendships with the customers.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Dearnos has been trading on the market since 1968. Picture: Joseph NortonDearnos has been trading on the market since 1968. Picture: Joseph Norton (Image: Archant)

"Socialising is a key part of the market experience."

Steven Carr, owner of Carr's chip stall, described the increased trade during the summer as a "bonus".

He said: "We work hard all year and the summer just comes as a bonus.

"It's great to know you're going to be busy for that six week period."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Inside Dearnos' chip stall. Picture: Joseph NortonInside Dearnos' chip stall. Picture: Joseph Norton (Image: Archant)

Mr Carr, who has worked on the market for 32 years, said it was the opportunity for customers to eat chips outside in the fresh air which made visiting the market so special.