AN EATERY with four branches in Dorset is a finalist in the fish and chip shop 'Oscars'.

Harlees, which has shops in Corfe Mullen, Verwood, Poole Quay and Swanage, is one of three businesses competing in the 'best multiple fish and chip operator' category of the 30th National Fish and Chip Awards.

The company faces competition from Catch Seafood, based in West Yorkshire and Newcastle upon Tyne, and the Good Catch, which has six premises in Merseyside, Manchester, Cheshire and Liverpool.

Judges will make unannounced visits to the businesses in the coming weeks to assess their responsible sourcing policies, outlet appearance and facilities, menu development and innovation, supplier relationships, marketing and promotional activity and staff development and training.

The quality of the fish and chips on offer will also be judged.

The winner will be announced at a special awards ceremony in London on January 25 2018.

Marcus Coleman, chief executive at event organiser Seafish, said: “We may have our favourite local fish and chip shop, where we know we will receive a high-quality dish and excellent standard of service, but for a business to consistently deliver across numerous premises and locations - that is a delight for the customer.

“Juggling the demands of running a successful chain is not to be underestimated.

"It can certainly prove challenging, but also extremely rewarding.

"Our finalists all have the ambition and drive to succeed which is evident in their passion for operating multi-site businesses. I commend them for upholding the standards of our industry and wish them luck in the next round of judging.”-

For more information visit fishandchipawards.com