The official search for the best chippies is on as the National Fish & Chip Awards 2027 launches
June 30, 2026
It was another one for the history books as Traitors star David Olusoga became the latest big name to sample one of the North East’s most famous menus.
The Gateshead-raised television presenter and producer proved to be a popular diner at Colmans’ Ocean Road restaurant — chatting with staff and posing for pictures at the award-winning South Shields staple.
And after wowing a sold-out audience at the annual South Shields Lecture, historian Olusoga tucked into his post-event meal alongside invited guests from across the worlds of politics, entertainment and business.
“David was an absolute gentleman and everybody loved him,” said Richard Colman Ord, director of Colmans Hospitality Group.
“We’ve been lucky enough to welcome a few famous faces to our restaurants over the years and David’s visit will live long in the memory.
“As anyone who heard him in conversation with David Milliband will know, he’s passionate about the North East and is such an engaging storyteller.
“To welcome one of the world’s greatest historians to Ocean Road, in the year Colmans celebrates its centenary, is incredibly fitting.
“He was keen to find out about our own place in the history of South Shields and find out more about the family’s story and our roots.”
Prior to visiting Colmans, an honest and forthright Olusoga had thrilled a capacity crowd at Harton Academy during an 80-minute South Shields Lecture.
Hot topics included North East culture, his own upbringing as a mixed-race child on Tyneside and, of course, his memorable stint as a Faithful in the ratings-topping Celebrity Traitors.
Olusoga talked of the time Paul Gascoigne picked him off the floor in the schoolyard after bullies had bundled him over.
And he revealed how his mother’s fight to secure a dyslexia diagnosis in the early 80s transformed his life.
Olusoga follows the likes of James Corden, Hillary Clinton, Sting and Sir John Major as the star turn at the South Shields Lecture.
Colmans are proud sponsors of an event that shines a global spotlight on South Tyneside and Richard added: “These nights are very special.
“When you look at the calibre of guests, the topics they discuss and the lasting effect the lecture has on our community it’s impossible to over-estimate its impact.
“David brings history alive and is an inspiration to so many generations — including all of the young people in the room at Harton.”
Colmans has long been a favourite haunt for celebrities keen to experience its legendary fish and chips.
2025 South Shields Lecture star Corden posed with staff and customers on his latest visit while local stars Jade and Chris and Rosie Ramsey are regulars.
Earlier this year HRH The Princess Royal enjoyed a fish and chip lunch at Colmans Seafood Temple — kicking off the 2026 centenary celebrations in style.
The family-run business continues to grow after opening up in Fenwick’s last year and acquiring Whitburn’s Village Café earlier this year.
