A BRADFORD fish and chip shop has been shortlisted to win an award in a national competition.

Towngate fisheries, in Idle, will go up against two other finalists, from Ireland and Wales, in the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) Quality Award ‘Champion’ Award.

The awards, organised by Seafish, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with the 'Champion' award in its sixth year.

To reach this stage of the competition, the three finalists have been assessed against the NFFF’s quality benchmark which includes assessment of the overall quality of premises, working practices, key ingredients, cooked products, hygiene standards and staff training. Most importantly it also looks at how these businesses promote the importance and benefits of this quality mark to their customers.

The overall national winner will be announced at the anniversary awards ceremony to be held on January 25.

Marcus Coleman, chief executive at Seafish, said: “Fish and chips have been the nation’s favourite takeaway for over 150 years, and as the trade body for our industry the NFFF has worked tirelessly to ensure quality standards rise year-on-year.

“With such high expectations on our local fish and chip shops and restaurants it’s important that quality doesn’t falter. This award gives shops that are already showcasing ‘quality’ excellence something more to aim for, and recognises the best of the best in the fish and chip world.

“As well as delivering a superior product and service, our finalists have demonstrated excellence in all aspects of running their respective businesses – they truly have set fantastic standards and I congratulate them all.”

Award sponsor Craig Maw, Vice President at The National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), added: “Launched in 2011, the NFFF Fish & Chip Quality Award is offered to the industry to improve operating standards and showcase best practice to UK wide consumers. The NFFF Quality Award also now works in conjunction with the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Primary Authority as part of the appraisal and accreditation process for the award.