A local chippy has been named the best in London and the south east, just a month after being voted top in Kent, Sussex and Surrey.

Papa's Barn, in Ditton, today received the acclaim, and now is in with the chance to fry for glory against the nine other regional winners, to be crowned the nation's favourite.

The London Road shop was awarded the title as part of the National Fish and Chip Awards 2016, organised by Seafish.

It's the second year the business has finished in the top ten, placing third last year.

To secure a position on the shortlist, shops have been judged on a variety of criteria, including responsible sourcing policies, shop appearance and facilities, staff training and development policies, marketing and promotional activity and local community involvement.

The stores also received several mystery shopping assessments and audits by industry experts.

Gavin Lewis, manager at Papa’s Barn, said: “We can’t believe we’re lucky enough to be in the top ten for two years in a row.

“We’re really fortunate to have a great team of motivated staff, we can’t thank them enough for their continued support, without them this wouldn’t be possible.

"After coming third last year, we truly believe we have what it takes to win the top title this year.”

The nine other finalists are Cromars in St Andrews, Fife, Hikary’s Fish Bar in Neath, Port Talbot, The Dolphin Takeaway in Dungannon, County Tyrone, Mister C’s in Selby, North Yorkshire, Hodgson’s Chippy in Lancaster, Lancashire, Simpsons Fish & Chips in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, The Cod’s Scallops in Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, Cox’s of Letchworth in Letchworth, Hertfordshire, and Kingfisher Fish & Chips in Plympton, Plymouth.

The final awards ceremony will be at The Lancaster London Hotel on January 20.