Kettering chippy batters the opposition in fight for top shop spot

MD's Fish Bar, in London Road in Kettering, received the most votes in the contest to be named winners in the annual battle of the batter.

Brothers Paul and Sam Cheng and Sam's wife Min Fan put their success down to old fashioned hard work and good quality, fresh ingredients.

Shop manager Paul said: "We've got a good reputation. It's always one of us three who does the cooking. That way it's consistent.

"We keep it traditional - no kebabs or pizza because we don't need to. We stick to what we are good at.

"My brother keeps an eye on the quality of the batter and the freshness of the food. Every morning I peel the potatoes to make sure they are good.

"We use top quality oil and fresh potatoes.

"The top three favourites that keep people coming back for more are cod and chips, battered sausage and chips and just plain chips."

MD's Fish Bar beat another Kettering chippy to the top spot - Werringtons Fish and Chips in Stamford Road which came second - with Corby's Ocean Fish Bar in Pytchley Court taking third place.

The fish bar had previously won the title Chip Shop of the Year title in 2014.

Shop owner Sam Cheng said: "This is the second time we have won and we are extremely proud and honoured.

"We have run this business for more than 16 years building a strong reputation.

"It's thanks to the customers. They have been absolutely amazing and we cannot thank them enough for their huge support in taking their time to vote for us."

The other shortlisted finalists were Blue Atlantic Fish and Chips, Wellingborough; Deb's Fish Bar, Rushden; Desborough Fish Bar, Desborough; Nick's Fish & Chips, Kettering; Old Village Fish and Chip Shop, Corby; Traditional Fish & Chips, High Street, Broughton and Wellingborough Fish & Chips, Finedon.