Couple scoop best chip shop award

Linda and Nigel opened Hodgsons in Lancaster 18 years ago

A couple who fell in love while working in a fish and chip shop have won an award for the nation's best chippy.

Hodgsons Chippy in Lancaster beat nine other UK finalists to win the Sea Fish Industry Authority (Seafish) National Fish and Chip Shop of the Year prize.

Nigel and Linda Hodgson, who met in a chippy owned by Linda's father, won for customer service and high quality food.

Andy's Fish Bar in Swadlincote, Derbyshire, came second and McDermott's Fish and Chips in Croydon were third.

Andy Gray from Seafish said the winners were "setting a great example".

Mr Hodgson said: "This is more than I could have dreamed of.

"When we entered the competition we never thought we would get this far.

"We want to say a massive thank-you to all our staff and customers who have supported us and helped us get this fantastic award."

The pair were presented with the award by celebrity chef Brian Turner at a ceremony in London.

The competition is sponsored by the Frozen Sea Fillets Association and Seafood Scotland.