The 2014 National Fish and Chip Awards at Lancaster London Hotel

Since the competition started in 1987, the National Fish and Chip Awards have sought to raise standards and generate positive publicity for the industry. Having celebrated its quarter-century anniversary last year with awards hosted by comedian and impressionist Rory Bremner, the National Fish and Chip Awards have gathered importance over the years and become a major calendar event for industry professionals nationwide. In its current 26^th year, the awards continue to represent prestigious acknowledgement for many businesses and individuals in the fish industry across the UK. The 2014 awards ceremony was hosted by French celebrity chef, Jean-Christophe Novelli, with a welcome speech from Seafish chief executive, Dr Paul Williams, who placed emphasis on the organisation’s increasing focus on sustainability.

The top acknowledgement, the Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award, was won by family-run Quayside (Whitby, North Yorkshire). The acclaimed fish bar also scooped the Marketing Innovation Award and was voted Best Fish and Chip Shop in Northeast England for the second year running. Winner of the 2004 Young Fish Frier of the Year, Stuart Fusco, said his family were “immensely proud” to have won.

Iona Thomas
Photos: Patricia Atzur

For further information about the National Fish and Chip Awards visit here.

The award winners from other categories on the night are as follows:

Poppies Fish & Chips in Spitalfields, London
Independent Fish and Chip Restaurant of the Year Award

Harbourside Fish & Chips in Plymouth, Devon
Staff Training and Development Award

Harbour Lights in Falmouth, Cornwall
‘Fish Friday’ Fundraising Award

Hennighan’s Top Shop in Machynlleth, Powys
Community Contribution Award

Burton Road Chippy in Lincoln, Lincolnshire
From Field to Frier Award
Seafarers UK ‘Fish & Chip Feast’ Fundraiser Champion Award

Hendra Holiday Park Fish & Chip Shop in Newquay, Cornwall
Best Seasonal Fish and Chip Operator Award

George’s Tradition in Derby, Derbyshire
Best Multiple Fish and Chip Operator Award

The Cod’s Scallops in Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Best Newcomer Award

Richardson’s Fish Bar, Fleetwood
Lancashire for the Good Catch Award

Belhaven Pubs and Tesco Cafes/Compass Group
Best Multiple Foodservice Outlet Serving Fish and Chips Awards

The Real Food Café in Tyndrum, Perthshire
Best Independent Foodservice Outlet Serving Fish and Chips Award

Leigh Foster of Patrini’s in Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear
Young Fish Frier of the Year Award

Chamberlains Quality Fish & Chips in Birmingham, West Midlands
NFFF Fish & Chip Quality Award ‘Champion’ Award

Fred Capel of Chez Fred in Westbourne, Bournemouth
Outstanding Achievement Award