Hartlepool-based Mary Lambert Artisan Bakery has won the Best Foodservice Operator Award at the National Fish & Chip Awards 2020.

The Best Foodservice Operator category was open to outlets such as pubs, restaurants, leisure outlets, cafés and hotels, where fish and chips are included on the menu but are not the core offering.

“Mary Lambert’s core business might be baked goods, but the judges were hugely impressed with the quality of fish and chips on offer at their premises, describing it as a fantastic business, providing a wonderful fish and chips dining experience,” said Marcus Coleman, chief executive at Seafish, the public body that organised the UK-wide competition.

Mary Lambert was assessed against judging criteria including sourcing policies, preparation and cooking techniques, promotional activity and menu innovation.

“Every year, entrants to the foodservice operator award prove beyond doubt that you can find high-quality, healthy fish and chips in businesses that are not traditional fish and chip takeaways or restaurants.”

The awards took place this month at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, with more than 600 guests in attendance.