MERCHANTS in Bewdley has been named as one of the Midlands' top six fish and chip shops.

The Load Street chippy now aims to 'batter' its competition to become the region's winner in the 2018 National Fish and Chip Awards - organised by Seafish.

To get to this stage and secure a ‘plaice’ in the shortlist, Merchants' frying skills have been put to the test as well as being judged against vigorous criteria, including menu development and innovation, sustainable sourcing policies, staff training processes and marketing techniques.

The ultimate prize for the Bewdley shop is to become the overall winners and receive the title of Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award.

Marcus Coleman, chief executive at Seafish, said: "This award showcases the best of the best, the local fish and chip shops that we all love to eat from.

"The calibre of shops in this year's top 60 is outstanding - they are a true representation of our industry and sum up perfectly why British fish and chips are, and will always be, the best in the world.

"With 60 shortlisted shops to choose from, why not take a trip to your nearest contender and see how you rate it."

The winner of the Fish and Chip Shop of the Year will be announced at the National Fish and Chip Awards' 30th anniversary ceremony in London on January 25, 2018.

For more information or to view the full shortlist, visit fishandchipawards.com.