This chippy is the plaice to be

Fish and Chip Plaice, in Hazelhurst Drive, Garstang, has been named as one of the top six finalists in the North West, according to the National Fish and Chip Awards.

The eatery, which uses locally sourced produce, will compete against Hodgson’s Chippy in Lancaster; Pisces in Fleetwood, the Fylde Fish Bar in Southport; Papas; and The Big Blue, both in Warrington, for the ultimate accolade - Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award. To reach this stage they have been appraised by industry experts across a variety of judging criteria, including menu development and innovation, sustainable sourcing policies, customer service and staff training processes, marketing and promotional flair, and how they attract new customers to fish and chips.

Owner Nicola Clark said: “It is an absolute honour to be shortlisted in the biggest competition in the industry. This is one everyone wants to be part of. Even if we don’t progress any further, it is a great privilege to have got this far, as this is judged by industry experts. I would like to thank my wonderful team, as it would not be possible without them. My dad, Ken Blondell, comes out of retirement every Friday to give me a hand. We are judged on a lot of areas, including customer service, which my team shine at.”

Marcus Coleman, chief executive at organisers Seafish, added: “The award is one of the highest honours a fish and chip business can receive. Receiving it is the pinnacle of many friers’ careers.”

An awards ceremony will be held in London in January next year.

For Lancashire Evening Post's own best chippy competition, click here http://www.lep.co.uk/news/can-you-help-us-find-lancashire-s-best-chippy-1-7993454