THE Golden Carp Chippy in Redditch has been revealed as the top fish and chip shop in Midlands.

Following rigorous judging, 10 businesses have been shortlisted for the Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award, one of 15 categories in the 2018 National Fish & Chip Awards.

The 10 shops, representing the best of the best of British fish and chips, will now compete in a final judging stage for this top accolade and aim to be crowned number one in the UK.

Theo Ellinas, owner of The Golden Carp Chippy, said: “It’s a great feeling to be shortlisted in the top 10 as we are being recognised by the industry’s main authority, Seafish.

"We like to think that we are ambassadors in our region, selling and promoting our country’s best loved meal - fish and chips – and being shortlisted for this award is almost like being given the seal of approval.

“However, it’s not just about making the shortlist; it’s about the journey towards getting there."

He added: "The team have put in so much hard work, and together we have improved our shop beyond expectations. To receive recognition for all of our hard work, by a panel of experts who understand the industry, is the cherry on top of the cake.”

The 10 regional winners will now progress to the final stage of judging to be held in London in January 2018.

Facing a specialist judging panel they’ll be quizzed on a range of industry related topics and be required to demonstrate how they successfully run a profitable business and plan for future development.