The judging is over, and the verdict has been delivered. The Malt and Anchor has won Best Newcomer at the National Fish and Chips Awards.

Beating off competition from across the country and going through various judging stages that included innovative approaches to running a new fish and chip shop, promotional activities, and approaches to sustainable and responsible sourcing, the shop lifted the trophy at a glittering bash at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London yesterday.

The chippie in Castle Street, Cirencester, was up against two other shops, Fish and Chips at Weston Grove in Cheshire and Quayside Restaurant and Fish Bar in Aberdeenshire.

“All of the hard work has paid off and I am delighted with this award,” said Malt and Anchor director Dan Lafford.

“I speak for the team at Malt and Anchor when I say we are delighted with this award.

“It was a fantastic feeling to be recognised as the best in the South, but to be the best newcomer in the whole of the UK is something really special.

“Fish and chips is a part of British history and heritage and I like to think we are bringing something different and innovative to this world famous industry.

“I have worked in the hospitality and bar scene for over 15 years, so I have combined this with the great flavours of fish and chips by bringing in our own specially brewed beer, we also combine the traditional dish with carefully selected prosecco which actually complements fish and chips.

“The restaurant and takeaway has some well received differences such as ham hock and leek mushy peas, lemon and thyme and other infused salts, pickled quail eggs and a quirky shop interior to name a few.

“I would like to thank our kitchen and front of house team for all of their hard work.

“I am also grateful to the residents of Cirencester and the surrounding villages that have given us so much support in our first year.”