A chippy in County Durham has been revealed as a winner at this year’s National Fish and Chip ceremony – claiming two big awards.

Bells Fish and Chips in Durham won in the “Field to Frier” and “Multiple Operator of the Year” categories.

Elsewhere, Yarm Road Fish and Chips in Darlington was revealed as the runner-up for best “Takeaway of the Year”, being knocked off the top spot by Ship Deck in Caerphilly, Wales.

The full list of winners at the National Fish and Chip Awards 2024 can be found here.

Speaking about the event, awards organiser and president of the National Federation of Fish Friers Andrew Crook, said: “The National Fish and Chip Awards 2024 has been a remarkable experience to be part of. Our winners and finalists have put their all into making their fish and chip businesses stand-out for all the right reasons.

“It’s no secret that the sector has been hit hard by economic hardship, yet we have seen firsthand how chippies up and down the country, and overseas, are thinking fast on their feet to defy the odds without compromising on ethical standpoints, quality and most importantly, great tasting fish and chips.

“We are bursting with pride for our winners and other contenders. It’s a privilege to be able to support and encourage them further and they should all be proud of what they’ve achieved. Fish and chip teams rarely have a moment to pause but we hope everyone takes some time to enjoy the celebrations ahead of getting back to what they do best.”

The Northern Echo: The National Fish and Chip Awards 2024 was hosted by comedian Rob BeckettThe National Fish and Chip Awards 2024 was hosted by comedian Rob Beckett (Image: National Fish and Chip Awards)

Bells Fish and Chips invited to Norway for 'once in a lifetime experience'

Bells Fish and Chips among other category winners have been invited to visit Norway in June by principal sponsors of the awards, Seafood from Norway.

Those attending will take part in a “once-in-a-lifetime experience”.

The two-day study trip will take fish and chip shop teams on an unforgettable exploration of the Norwegian fishing industry, experiencing the cold, clear waters aboard the state-of-the-art longliner and Danish seine vessel, Østerfjord, to learn more about environmental and sustainable practices that ensure UK fish and chip shops are supplied with the freshest, highest quality produce. 

They will also meet leading industry authorities and stakeholders to find out how fish stocks are sustained, as well as learn about frozen-at-sea white fish.

Meanwhile, Bells Fish and Chips have also been highly praised on Tripadvisor for providing “quick friendly service” by one recent visitor.

Their review added: “Great price and one of the best plates of fish and chips I've ever had.

“As good as much more talked about places in North Sheilds or Anstruther. And much better value.”

Recommended reading:

This person wrote: “We ordered a range of dishes - fish, pies, chicken, sausages. All with Chips.

“The portion sizes were good, and the food hot and tasty. Pan-fried fish was light, and the steak pie was full of meat.

“The chap running the upstairs room was very efficient and helpful. All in all, an excellent eating-in experience.”