'I couldn't believe - I didn't even know we were entered' Black Country chip shops are the cods scollops after surprise national win

The Crispy Cod Fish and Chips on Bradford Road, Dudley, has been named Fish and Chip Bar of the Year for the central Dudley region.

The online awards, run by events and food group, Creative Oceanic, celebrates our favourite English eateries and awards accolades to restaurants that excel in excellence.

The accolade marks the first time the Creative Oceanic group has handed out the award, with the Crispy Cod owner and manager, Reupinder Sandu, saying he is delighted to win the 'surprise' award.

Mr Sandhu, 35, who has owned the chip shop for five years, said: "I can't believe it. I actually didn't know that we had been entered until I was told about it by the media. 

"It's a very nice surprise. I am really proud of our team."

However, the Bradford Road-based chippy wasn't the only one in the Black Country to win an accolade for their service, with the Stourbridge-based Ocean Boat Fish and Chip Restaurant, on Camp Hill, also winning the Fish and Chip Bar of the Year for their area.

The restaurant and take-away changed hands in December 2024, with new manager Shem Siva saying his team quickly began working to 'provide the best service possible'.

Mr Siva, manager of the Ocean Boat, said: "We are really shocked. We can't believe it. We obviously have to say thank you to all of our customers.

"Our team has put a lot of hard work into the shop since we took it over in December. It's really nice to know that our customers appreciate us."

Also awarded an accolade for one of the Best in Midlands was Ivan's Fish and Chip Shop on Reddal Hill Road, Cradley Heath. 

The English Chippy Awards are run as part of an online campaign by Creative Oceanic to promote and celebrate excellence and show the heritage that goes into our loved fish and chip industry.

To see the full list of winners across England for 2024, visit the Creative Oceanic website.