New chip shop wins top accolade

Harbour Lights has nine employees

A new fish and chip shop in Cornwall has been awarded the highest accolade from within the industry.

The Harbour Lights, which opened in Truro in February, is the first in the county to be awarded a five-star rating from the Seafish Industry Authority.

Owners John Wilkes and Peter Fraser said they were "absolutely chuffed" with the Fish Friers' quality rating.

The takeaway uses locally-grown Cornish Maris Piper potatoes and sustainable Atlantic Cod.

The shop and its preparation unit in Penryn were inspected and judged on more than 200 aspects of the daily running of a fish and chip business, including quality and preparation of ingredients, hygiene, management, cooking temperatures and the finished product.

'Seal of approval'

Mr Wilkes told BBC News trade has been increasing steadily since the shop opened its doors on 14 February.

"To achieve this award after only four months is a great honour," he said.

"And our customers can rest assured that the superb quality fish and chips we serve, now has the official seal of approval."

The rating is valid for 12 months and a further inspection will be carried out next year.

Mr Wilkes said there would be no "resting on our laurels" from any one of the nine full and part-time employees.

"We couldn't have got the top rating without a huge amount of effort from all the staff and we certainly won't be giving it up without a hell of a struggle."