TEES Valley Mayor Ben Houchen has praised an environmentally-friendly Redcar chippy after they celebrated moves towards going plastic-free on National Fish ‘n’ Chips Day.

Mr Houchen praised Oliver’s Fish and Chips restaurant and takeaway that’s gone almost plastic-free while achieving a fifth successive year on TripAdvisor’s prestigious Hall of Fame.

Family-owned Oliver’s no longer use plastic straws or plastic bags within their 64-seat restaurant or next door takeaway, while they’ve introduced wooden stirrers, knives and forks, while recycling bins are now in place on both premises.

Mr Houchen said: “Fish ‘n’ chips are a national institution and some of the best in the country can be found in Redcar.

“National Fish ‘n’ Chips Day is not just a celebration of this heritage, it’s also a celebration of the thousands of small independent fish ‘n’ chip restaurants and takeaways across Teesside.

“The fact that Michael and Helen have been able to keep Oliver’s in the TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame for five successive years is testament to their hard-work and dedication and I congratulate them on everything they have achieved.”

The Bath Street eatery – which serves up 44,000 servings of chips per year, amounting to 1.7 million chips - is owned by husband and wife team Michael and Helen Roberts, who named the thriving business after their son Oliver.

“We’re proud that the mayor wanted to pay a visit to sample what we believe is Teesside’s very best version of the nation’s favourite dish,” said experienced fryer Mike.

“Redcar is renowned for its fish ‘n’ chips and we’re proud of our reputation for excellence, but nowadays customers expect far more than just tasty food.

“That’s why we’ve worked so hard over the last 18 months to lead the way as a responsible business, going almost plastic-free and working with suppliers to further reduce plastic use with the aim of achieving zero usage.

“At the same time, we’re continuing to work with the Marine Stewardship Council to support responsible fishing.”

Helen added: “We’re proud to offer vegetarian frying options in both our takeaway and restaurant, while we’ve signed up with Redcar and Cleveland Council as a safe haven for any mums who wish to breast feed.”

Oliver’s, which provides discounts to members of the armed forces and emergency services staff, recently became the 150th Redcar / Cleveland Ambassador, a group of businesses committed to promoting the region as a great place to live, enjoy and do business.