A CHIP off the block in a long-standing, well-known North-East family business has been recognised in the New Year Honours.

Richard Ord, owner of Colmans Fish & Chips and its ‘Seafood Temple’, in South Shields, was awarded an MBE for services to the hospitality industry and regeneration in South Tyneside.

The 66-year-old first cut fish at Colmans, in Ocean Road, in 1969, aged 15, when fish and chips cost just 10p.

He was the fourth generation of Colman to have worked in the business, which started out as a beach shack in 1905 and moved to its current premises in 1926.

Clocking up more than half-a-century service in fish and chips and the hospitality industry, his hard work, skill and commitment to quality has seen Colmans grow in size and stature to become a landmark for fish and chips.

His focus on sustainability and the environment has seen the business break new ground, becoming the first MSC certified sustainable seafood fish and chip shop in England, the first winner of the Good Catch Award, and earning it a place in prestigious restaurant bibles.

He said he was, “thrilled and shocked” at the news.

“To me, I’ve done no more or no less than anyone else, I just go to work and do what I’ve always loved doing.

“After such a difficult year it’s just wonderful news.”