A HARTLEPOOL chip shop is in the running to pick up a best newcomer award after being shortlisted in a national competition.

Mary Lambert, named after the entrepreneur who ran businesses in the town for decades, will go cod to cod against six other shops in the National Fish and Chip Awards.

Run by Mary’s son Eric and granddaughter Phillipa Lambert, the business will be taking on The Cod’s Scallops in Nottingham, Nottinghamshire; Godfrey's in Harpenden, Hertfordshire; The Scallop Shell in Frome, Somerset; Carlo's in Morpeth, Northumberland; Blackstocks in Chester, Cheshire; and Scotts of Helmsley in York, North Yorkshire.

Mr Lambert said: ““We were all thrilled to hear the news, it really picked us up on a horrible rainy day. We are all passionate about food and quality service, so it’s extremely exciting to get this news.”

Each shortlisted business will now receive a mystery judging visit from an industry specialist who will assess their performance in a variety of areas.

The winner will be announced at a ceremony held at the Lancaster London hotel on January 22.