​Top 5 Contenders: 2024's Field to Frier Award Finalists

The National Fish and Chip Awards has announced the top five contenders for the prestigious 2024 Field to Frier Award. This recognition celebrates excellence in potato selection, preparation, and cooking among the UK's fish and chip shops.

This year's finalists hail from diverse locations: Durham, Devon, Wales, and Scotland. These chip shops have excelled in potato proficiency, showcasing their skills in preparing and storing potatoes, understanding seasonal varieties, and mastering the art of crafting delicious chips.

An expert panel of potato professionals conducted thorough assessments, challenging these businesses to surpass their existing standards and aim for new achievements. The next stage involves virtual interviews with industry specialists to determine the top three finalists who will attend the award ceremony at Park Plaza Westminster on 28 February.

The finalists are:

• Bells Fish and Chips, Durham
• Pier Point Fish and Chips, Torquay
• Ship Deck, Caerphilly
• Finney's Fish and Chips, Benllech
• The Fish Works, Largs

Andrew Crook, President of the National Federation of Fish Friers and organiser of the awards, highlights the expertise required in cooking perfect chips, encompassing variety selection, cooking techniques, and consistent quality.

Sponsored by Isle of Ely Produce and co-sponsored by Agrico, the Field to Frier Award emphasises the significance of potato variety and quality in the fish and chip industry. Agrico's sales manager, Alex Moore, and Isle of Ely Director, Oliver Boutwood, emphasise the importance of adopting best practices with new varieties like Babylon, and the role of this award in educating shops on maximising their potato supplies.

The competition is intense, and the industry eagerly anticipates the announcement of this year's Field to Frier champion. Share your thoughts and support for these exceptional businesses in the comments below!