Two Yorkshire fish and chip shops’ determination to serve only fish from sustainable supplies has landed them with an international environmental award.

Scotts of Helmsley and its sister venue, Scotts at Bilbrough, have joined a select band of just 47 fish and chip shops in the country to carry the MSC (Marine Stewardship Council’s) Fisheries Standard.

This standard has been developed in consultation with the fishing industry, scientists and conservation groups. The MSC label means that the fish used is from a source which has been independently certified as well-managed and sustainable.

Certification to the MSC Fisheries Standard is voluntary. It is open to all fisheries involved in the capture of marine or freshwater organisms. The process to become certified involves a pre-assessment evaluation of the fishery, full assessment and further annual surveillance to assess compliance with MSC Certification Requirements.

George Clark, UK commercial manager for the MSC, said: "It is fantastic that Scotts have pursued this certification for not one, but both of their chippies. It really shows their commitment to sustainable seafood.

"Scotts are truly helping to protect the marine environment by choosing MSC certified sustainable fish for their menus, making sure that there will be fish for now and for future generations.”

Tony Webster, owner of Scotts of Helmsley and Scotts at Bilbrough, said: "We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded this important industry accreditation for both our Helmsley and York fish and chip shops.

"This international certification means that environmentally-conscious customers dining at Scotts can be assured that our supply of fish only comes from sustainable sources.”

Shane White, Scotts of Helmsley chef manager, said: "It’s an important standard to have and one that we intend to keep for many years to come. We shall certainly be displaying the certificates with pride in both venues.”

Mr Webster purchased the popular diner and takeaway at Bilbrough Services 12 months ago as a sister venue to his Scotts fish and chip shop in the North Yorkshire market town of Helmsley.

Within the licenced restaurant situated on Bridge Street, Scotts at Helmsley has a large separate dining area which is a popular choice for walkers/ramblers and cyclists.

Scotts at Bilbrough is located adjacent to the A64 at Bilbrough Services. The venue boasts a 110-seater restaurant with an extended take-away facility with a new "eat in” section.

Both shops are open seven days a week and have a new menu with an increased number of homemade dishes.

For more information and to make a booking, go to Scotts Fish and Chips website

http://scottsfishandchips.co.uk/