A fish and chip shop in Wells has been ranked as one of the top two in the East of England, by the national fish and chip awards.

Platten's Fish and Chips, on the Quayside, has been shortlisted as one of Eastern England's best chippies - and the business, which has been running in Wells for decades, is thrilled.

Manager-director, Phil Platten, said: 'Its really taken us by surprise. We are absolutely over the moon to be recognised in this way across the industry.

'My grandfather started this business in the early 1960s, and we've been here ever since.

'All the staff at Platten's are absolutely thrilled.'

He added that, as there are 10,500 chip shops in the UK, to be recognised is really special.

Mr Platten's son, assistant-manager Luke, described the shortlisting as: 'fantastic news'.

Platten's has been shortlisted as part of the 30th anniversary National Fish & Chip Awards, which are organised by Seafish.

The only other chip shop in the East of England to be selected is the Burton Road Chippy in Lincoln, and these two shops are the Eastern region's entries into the UK's top 20.

These 20 shops will compete for their place in the final, and will be judged on their frying skills, menu development and innovation, sustainable sourcing policies, staff training processes and marketing activity.

Judges will make unannounced visits to the shops, to assess which are worthy of progressing to the top ten - and a place in the final, in London in January 2018.

Marcus Coleman, CEO of Seafish, said: 'Fish and chips are Britain's national dish; loved by millions across the country.

'Our Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award is the highest accolade for a fish and chip shop to win.

'This category is renowned for its fierce competition and our top 20 showcase the best talent that there is in the sector right now.'

Award sponsor Brian MacNeice, of Kerry Foodservice, said: 'We're honoured to support an award that acknowledges the hard work and vision of people working in the industry.

'The importance of recognising businesses that make every effort to uphold fish and chips as our national dish cannot be stressed enough.

'We're looking forward to seeing who comes out on top this year.'