Today has been a big day in Manchester – and not because of events in Westminster that involved a guy from Manchester taking a train ride down to London today.
Today has been a big day for small businesses across the country who day in day out carry on serving up the nation's favourite takeaway, all eyes have been on the 2026 English Fish & Chip Awards, where a Penrith business was competing as a finalist in multiple categories.
Penrith's Angel Lane Chippie and Sandgate Chippie, alongside The Chippie Van, represented Cumbria on the national stage in this year's awards.
Both Angel Lane Chippie and Sandgate Chippie had been shortlisted in the Best Fish & Chips in the North West category, putting them both among the top chippies in the region.
The Chippie Van was shortlisted in the national Best Fish Fryer of the Year category, recognising skill, consistency, and quality in traditional fish frying.
Sandgate Chippie was also shortlisted and won the Most Sustainable Fish & Chip Shop category, highlighting its approach to responsible sourcing and environmental awareness.
The day began with Angel Lane Chippie's owner, Dan Harding, taking part in a live cook-off challenge, putting his skills to the test against some of the very best fish and chip operators in the country. Later, the finalists swapped their aprons for suits as they headed to the awards ceremony in Manchester.
Speaking before the cook-off, Dan said: "To be recognised among the country's top fish and chip businesses is a fantastic achievement in itself, and we're so grateful to our amazing team and loyal customers who have supported us every step of the way."
That support has paid off tonight with Angel Lane Chippie now officially named the Best Fish and Chip Shop in the North West at the 2026 English Fish & Chip Awards.
The award places the Penrith business among the very best in the country and is a significant achievement for both the team and the town.
Congratulations to Dan and the entire team at Angel Lane Chippie and Sandgate Chippie. It's now official Penrith is home to the best fish and chips in the North West and also the Most Sustainable Fish & Chip Shop.
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