Clash intensifies as Spudman set for city visit to boost independent trade

"Spudgate" is gaining momentum with locals divided over the launch of a new jacket potato franchise and many vowing to shop local ahead of The Spudman's visit.

- by Sophie Lewis

Left, Jacket Potato Lady, Vicky Whittle, outside the Spudbox franchise. Picture: Halcyon Rahman & DW

(Halcyon Rahman & DW)

Signage is now up at the new SpudBros franchiseThe Portsmouth Express - with an open date confirmed for January 27, sparking controversy among residents who plan to boycott the store by prioritising independent jacket potato businesses.

The Commercial Road shop, which will be run by a local entrepreneur, is located a stone's throw from the Jacket Potato Lady's trailer which has been a firm fixture in the city for decades.

Established in the city in 1990, the spud business, which is now run by Vicky Penford, has said it has been inundated with support from locals since the social media announcement.