Chippy in hunt for top accolade

The Elite Fish and Chip Company of Grantham Road is among the recommended takeaways from the Eastern region to be in the final 60 for the 2017 National Fish and Chip Awards, organised by Seafish.

These are described as the ‘Oscars’ of the fish frying industry and the Sleaford outlet will compete for the Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award.

So far they have been appraised by industry experts on menu development and innovation, sustainable sourcing policies, customer service and staff training, marketing and promotional flair.

Over the coming weeks, the shop will receive mystery customers ending up with a UK top 20 to earn the regional titles and be up for the overall national title to be announced at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel on January 26, 2017.

Rachel Tweedale, manager at Elite’s Sleaford restaurant, was delighted, saying: “It’s through our hard work, community spirit and quality fish and chips that we’ve made it this far.”

Rachel also recently received a ‘Special Recognition’ award at the Red Ribbon Awards for family businesses in a ceremony at Wembley Stadium, for her hard work and devotion as an ambassador for the seafood and fish and chip trade.

Rachel said: “To be called up out of the blue to receive something that’s been created solely for me was incredible.”

The fish and chip company’s Ruskington restaurant has also become its third and final outlet to earn the National Federation of Fish Friers Fish and Chip Quality Award, which identifies fish and chip outlets that serve the highest quality fish and chips and deliver the best level of service.

Welbourne’s Fish and Chips in Ruskington, also owned by the family business, has been recognised.