A mobile chippy from the Ribble Valley has been named as one of the UK's 50 Best Fish & Chip Takeaways for 2026 in a prestigious list.
Country Fried, based in Langho, is the only mobile chippy in the county to make the list in Fry Magazine.
It follows two rounds of mystery dining visits in which judges meticulously inspected aspects, including food quality, premises cleanliness, staff expertise, value for money, ease of ordering, and social media presence.
With the pass mark set high at 97 per cent, Country Fried scored an impressive 99 per cent.
Some of the comments included: "The batter was light and crispy, free from excess grease," and "the fish was delicious and the portion size was excellent."
Another said: "I would definitely eat from this establishment again. The staff were friendly, and the food was exceptional for a chippy/mobile food van. I would go as far as to say that it was to a restaurant standard of fish and chips."
Simon Mathews, of Country Fried, said: “To be named as one of the UK’s 50 Best Fish & Chip Takeaways is a huge honour for us and a great way for us to start 2026, especially as this is only the second time we’ve entered the national competition.
"Our success comes down to doing the basics brilliantly every single time: top-quality ingredients, consistency, and an incredible team who genuinely care about every portion we serve.
"Above all, it’s our customers - their support, loyalty, and belief in what we do - that’s made this possible.”
Reece Head, competition organiser, said: “Congratulations to Country Fried. Over the past 12 months, they have faced significant challenges, including higher wage costs, rising energy bills and exceptional pressure on fish prices.
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"Despite this, they have maintained consistently high standards, supported and motivated their teams, and kept customers informed as changes were needed.
"That commitment was evident to our mystery judges and is what secured them a place among the UK’s leading fish and chip shops.
"An exceptionally high pass mark of 97 per cent was set this year, demonstrating the consistently high shop standards in place.
"Their success proves that our nation’s favourite takeaway remains nutritious, great value, and stronger than ever.”
“Starting the year as award winners is a fantastic way for fish and chip shops to kick off 2026, setting the tone for a successful year ahead.”
Fry Magazine’s 50 Best Fish & Chip Takeaways is in its 14th year, and sponsors include Frymax, Seafood from Norway, Pukka, KFE, The NFFF, McWhinney’s Sausages, BD Signs & BDigital, Superior Frying Fat, VA Whitley, Henry Colbeck, Sarson’s, Central Foods, Hopkins, and Kerry.
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