2012 winner of the Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award, Seniors at Marsh Mill says business has been so good since scooping the top prize in January that they are now able to take their award winning fish and chips to more people in neighbouring Blackpool by opening an outlet in Bipsham Village – representing an £85,000 investment.

Alastair Horabin, owner of Seniors, said: “We had a good reputation in Thornton before we won the award because local people loved our food. However since winning the Best Takeaway Award in 2012 we have welcomed customers from all over the UK who want to know what all the fuss is about.

“The increase in custom has had a remarkable effect on business. Our takings have increased by 10 per cent since we won which has allowed me to launch this new express diner style venture. I have been able to invest £85,000 in the new seniors. I know it will be worth it because the food there will be just as good as the original.

“With the early judging rounds for the 2013 awards well under way to find the best fish and chips talent in Britain, my advice to all successful entrants is to brace themselves for a whirlwind of change because if they are successful, they’re going to be in high demand.”

Just as Seniors did last year, 50 fish and chip shops across the UK are currently vying to be crowned regional Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year as part of the 25th National Fish and Chip Awards, organised by Seafish, the authority on seafood.

Competing across 10 UK regions, these 50 fish and chip shops are battling against each other in the hotly contested race to bag the ultimate national title, to be presented at a glitzy evening awards ceremony at The Lancaster Hotel in London on 24 January 2013.

UK regions include: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, North East England, North West England, Midlands, Eastern England, London and South East England, Central and South England and South West England. A full shortlist can be found at www.fishandchipawards.com

The annual National Fish and Chip Awards recognise the quality, value and choice offered by fish and chip businesses across the UK. This year’s awards are extra special as they celebrate their 25th anniversary and the various industry judging teams are determined to find the best talent and highest standards in the fish frying industry.

Paul Williams, chief executive of Seafish, said: “Alastair’s success just goes to show what can come from entering the National Fish and Chip Awards. And he’s right – any shop who manages to even make the shortlist in any category can expect to be in high demand.

“Seafish has been running the awards for 25 years and the calibre of entries demonstrates the battle to be a national winner is as fierce as ever. Good luck to everyone taking part.”

The National Fish and Chip Awards have not only improved the standards of the industry and raised awareness of the issues surrounding sustainable fishing practices, but they also contribute to generating additional revenue for the businesses involved and success in the awards greatly adds to any shop’s status.

In late September Seafish will announce the Top 10 regional winning takeaways from the shortlisted Top 50 shops in the UK. These winning shops will compete for the overall UK title, which will be announced on 24 January 2013.

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