The ‘Oscars’ of the fish and chip industry are rolling out the red carpet for one of the UK’s leading food and drink experts, Nigel Barden, as he returns to host the 2017 National Fish & Chip Awards.

A hugely popular and influential figure on the UK culinary circuit, Nigel is best known as the voice of food and drink on BBC Radio 2’s Simon Mayo Drivetime show. He will take centre stage at the awards’ new venue, the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel in London, on 26 January 2017 to make or break the dreams of fish and chip operators from across the UK.

Returning as host for the third year in a row, a first in the awards’ 29 year history, Nigel said that he couldn’t wait to celebrate the nation’s favourite takeaway and crown the best in the business.

He commented: "I can’t believe that I’ll be striding up the stage steps again to host The National Fish & Chip Awards in January. It is genuinely an honour to be involved with handing out such prestigious accolades and to share a room with the finest fish and chip purveyors in the United Kingdom is pretty special.

"These gifted friers are the perfect ambassadors for an industry that is a significant and important part of our culinary heritage. Some represent families that have been wrapping fish and chips for generations; others are talented newcomers, bringing extra vim and vigour to the sector.

"This year I’m fulfilling an ambition to join the judging panel and this has completed the circle for me. I’m one lucky fella, so you’ll notice an extra spring in my step, as I actually leap onto the stage to divulge the winners of the 2017 National Fish & Chip Awards.”

Marcus Coleman, Chief Executive at Seafish, added: "There was no doubt that we wanted to have Nigel back for 2017 - he has become a core part of the team and is loved by all who attend the awards.

"As a real foodie, Nigel has been celebrating British food on the BBC since 1990, and has judged and hosted many awards programmes, along with being the current chairman of the Great Taste Awards panel. With excellent food credentials and a showman’s charisma, Nigel’s passion and commitment for the UK’s food and drink industry make him an excellent host for the awards.

"With Nigel back on board and a brand new venue, I think 2017 is going to be a bumper year setting us on course for our 30th anniversary in 2018.”

Organised by Seafish, The National Fish & Chip Awards are recognised as one of the most prominent and respected seafood industry events in the UK. They celebrate the Great British tradition of fish and chips, showcasing the best talent, quality and choice offered by fish and chip businesses through 13 different award categories.

The 2017 awards ceremony marks the end of a seven-month judging process, during which applicants faced rigorous appraisal from leading industry experts.

For further information on The National Fish & Chip Awards please visit www.fishandchipawards.com or follow @FishnChipAwards.