Scots fryer crowned chippie king

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A Lanarkshire fish and chip shop has been named the best in the UK.

Atlantic Fast Food in Coatbridge beat off competition from nine other shops across Britain to scoop the title, awarded by the Seafish organisation.

Owner Giovanni Fionda and his parents were presented with the trophy at a ceremony in London.

The win completes a hat-trick for Scotland, as it is the third year running a Scottish chippie has claimed the prize.

Finnegan's Fish Bar, in Porthcawl, South Wales, came second, with The Great British Eatery in Birmingham in taking third place.

Atlantic Fast Food was crowned champion after a judging process which included a customer vote, taste tests, shop inspections and a presentation to a panel of industry experts.

Mr Fionda, whose parents have run fish and chip shops for many years, said: "To win this competition as a first-time entrant is a dream come true.

Our team are extremely hard working and it's thanks to them and our loyal customers that we are taking home this trophy Giovanni Fionda

"It's the best thing to have happened to us in our professional life and has made all the hard work worth it.

"We've worked in the fish and chips business for many years and it's always been great fun."

He added: "Our team are extremely hard-working and it's thanks to them and our loyal customers that we are taking home this trophy."

The prize was presented by TV chef Aldo Zilli.

He said: "The high standards of our fish and chip shops rival the top restaurants in the country.

"The best shop owners work hard to deliver outstanding quality by using the finest ingredients and a strong commitment to responsible fish sourcing. "

The Anstruther Fish Bar in Fife and the Townhead Cafe in Biggar are among previous winners.