The tradition of eating fish and chips on Good Friday (April 2) every year stems from the Christian belief that Jesus Christ was crucified on that day, sacrificing his flesh for our sins.
A rule in the Vatican states that, for this reason, Christians must abstain from eating 'fleshy' meat on Good Friday and this tradition has been upheld by devout Christians for centuries.
The rule, however, only refers to meat from 'land animals' so fish does not apply.
Furthermore, the fish symbol (Ichthys) was used to help Christians to identify each other when their religion was persecuted by the Roman Empire in the second to fourth centuries.
Anyway, now you know where the tradition originates, we asked our readers to recommend the best places to get your hands on good quality fish and chips in Northamptonshire and here are the most popular answers!
The rule, however, only refers to meat from 'land animals' so fish does not apply.
5. Nick's Plaice
Winner of the Northampton Chronicle & Echo’s Chippy of the Year 2019 award, Nick's Plaice is also a go-to in Northampton for fish and chips.
6. The Old Village Fish and Chip Shop - Corby
The Old Village Fish and Chip Shop can be found in High Street, Corby. Photo: The Old Village Fish and Chip Shop
7. Ben's Chippy - Thrapston
Ben's Chippy - owned by Terry and Alison Tibbs - can be found on Oundle Road in Thrapston. Photo: Ben's Chippy
8. Eastfield Fish Bar - Northampton
Another popular choice amongst our Northampton readers is the Eastfield Fish Bar, which can be found in Longland Road.