Three standout newcomers from the North of England and Scotland have been announced as finalists in the prestigious Newcomer of the Year category at the National Fish & Chip Awards

The finalists – The Cottage in Blackpool, Monster Fish & Chips Co. in Fort Augustus and The Crab & Lobster Fish Shack in South Queensferry – have all launched within the last two years and are already making waves with their high standards, smooth operations and excellent fish and chips.

Judges have assessed each finalist on everything from food quality to customer service, with anonymous visits and taste tests set to determine the ultimate winner.