The UK’s top three fledgling fish and chip businesses were announced today (6 November) as they compete for the Best Newcomer Award as part of the 2015 National Fish & Chip Awards, organised by Seafish.

The fish and chip contenders ‘frying’ for glory are:

Old Time Fisheries in Keighley, West Yorkshire

Pelican Jacks in Whale Hill, Middlesbrough

Shap Chippy in Penrith, Cumbria

Due to the outstanding calibre of entrants this year, Brockfield Fisheries in Huntington, York; Hartleys in Horsforth, Leeds and Havengore Fish & Chips in Chelmsford, Essex have also been highly commended.

Open to independent fish and chip businesses that have been operating since no earlier than 30 September 2012, the Best Newcomer Award recognises those establishments that have excelled since then.

Each shortlisted business will now receive a further mystery judging visit from an industry expert who will assess and appraise their performance across a variety of criteria including product quality, customer service, food preparation procedures, hygiene, innovation, staff training and development, promotional activity and approaches to sustainable sourcing. The overall national winner will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony at The Lancaster London Hotel held on 20 January 2015.

The award is sponsored by Frymax, the leading all-vegetable frying fat for the fish frying trade. Andrew Marriott, Brand and Marketing Manager for Frymax, commented:"Frymax is a high quality product that is once again pleased to be sponsoring the Best Newcomer Award which recognises and rewards the excellence of new fryers joining our industry.

"This year the standard has been exceptional, which is great news for the industry. With this year’s entrants being of such a high standard, we have also recognised those who have narrowly missed out on being finalists with a Highly Commended Award.”

Paul Williams, Chief Executive of Seafish, said: "The Best Newcomer Award continues to get stronger each year. Deciding on a final three was a very challenging task.

"There are some incredibly talented individuals that are dedicating their careers to ensure the future of our industry continues to thrive. It’s very rewarding to be able to acknowledge their hard work and dedication - I wish them all the best of luck.”

The National Fish & Chip Awards recognise the quality, value and choice offered by fish and chip businesses across the UK.