A CUMBRIAN chippy has scooped a top title at a national awards ceremony.

Shap Chippy was crowned Best Newcomer at the 2015 National Fish & Chip Awards in London today (January 20).

Jo Hampson, co-owner of Shap Chippy, said: “Having been in business for less than two years, it’s an honour to receive such a prestigious award and be standing alongside some of the industry's most successful businesses.

"We’re a small business in a very secluded, rural area so to receive national recognition is just amazing."

Recognising the excellence of new fish and chip businesses joining the industry, the award was handed over by BBC Radio 2 Nigel Barden a the Lancaster Hotel.

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“We do our best to help support our local community," added Ms Hampson. "We try to employee many youngsters and take pride in the training and development of all our staff, encouraging them to pursue qualifications."

Now in their 27th year, The National Fish & Chip Awards is a prominent date in the UK's seafood industry calendar.

Seafish chief executive Paul Williams said: “Every year we see new businesses entering our industry with such high standards, which is great news for all of us.

“Shap Chippy stood out for their outstanding knowledge and dedication throughout the judging process. I would like to offer my warmest congratulations and wish them the best success in the future.”