A fish and chip shop in Croydon has been recognised as one of the best in the UK.

McDermotts of Croydon has made it through to the finals of the Independent Fish and Chip Restaurant of the Year category, at the National Fish and Chip Awards 2012.

The restaurant in Forestdale, owned by Sean and Tony McDermott will now 'batter' it out against RockFish of Dartmouth, Quayside of Whitby, Trenchers of Whitby, Seniors of Thornton and Hanburys of Babbacombe to win the title at the grand final on January 17, 2012.

The award, organised by Seafish the authority on seafood, focuses on every aspect of running a successful fish and chip restaurant, including the premises, product, staff, company practices and marketing.

Sean McDermott said: "We are absolutely delighted to reach the final stages of this year's competition.

"Our business has been going for 26 years and has been based around serving the very best ingredients to our loyal customers and making them feel special when they visit our restaurant.

"The staff play a big part in this warm welcome and we are very grateful for their contribution in getting us this far.

"We look forward to the next stage and will be giving it our full attention in the hope we can go all the way."

David Lovell, of Kerry Foods' brand Goldensheaf which sponsors the competition, said: "This competition has been our fiercest yet with each finalist facing stiff competition.

"The high standards and quality displayed by the UK's top six fish and chip restaurants is testament to the high standards of the industry and committed approach to a sustainable future."