The Facebook page of a TOWIE-themed chip shop, which was threatened with legal action by the programme's maker, has been taken down.

The Only Way Is Fish, in Fyfield Road, Ongar, branded in honour of the owner’s favourite TV show, was ordered by Lime Pictures to change its name and logo, claiming it owns the copyright on any brand name including 'The Only Way is'.

The Business has been given until June 3 to cease trading with its current name and branding.

 Shop manager Chris Nelson said: “We don’t know why the page has been taken down but we assume it is related to the issues with Lime Pictures.

“We were not given any notice of it from Facebook and we have had no contact since from Facebook or Lime Pictures.

“Social media is a bit of fun for us but it is a good way of letting people know about offers and opening times for special events.”

The shop has received letters of support from as far away as Canada and Spain and also advice from lawyers and the Patent Office.

Mr Nelson added: “Trade has stayed about the same since the media coverage of the letter but now a lot more of our customers are talking in a very negative way about TOWIE and Lime Pictures because of the way they are treating a small business.”

The Guardian is awaiting response from bothe Facebook and Lime Pictures.