The Good Catch, a family-run fish and chip shop in Crosby, has been named the best takeaway in Merseyside in the National Fish & Chip Awards, putting it in contention to be crowned the best in the UK. The business will now face 39 other competitors for the national title.
The Good Catch serves traditional fish and chips across Merseyside, with shops in Crosby, Formby, Hale and Litherland. Siblings Michelle Fairclough, Alison Mattravers, Christopher Pittaras and Robert Pittaras have steered the business for years as the next generation carrying on their family's legacy.
Family heritage since 1962
The siblings, who are from Crosby, gained their expertise from their parents and grandparents. Their grandfather opened his first chippy on Soho Street in Liverpool in 1962. The Good Catch opened its first shops in Greater Manchester around 16 years ago before branching out across Merseyside.
Christopher is now at the helm of the business, joined by his wife, Kelly, and sons, Kypros and Theo. This year's National Fish & Chip Awards features 14 categories for national and international businesses, including the Takeaway of the Year distinction.
Reaction to the shortlisting
Christopher told the ECHO he was taken aback to learn The Good Catch was in the running, describing it as "massive news" for any family business. He said: "I'm made up. I'm over the moon, actually. We all work so hard so it's nice to get a bit of news like this. We previously entered multiple operator awards and managed to win one, so it's nice to be able to get back to winning."
"You never get bored of the feeling. It's a family business and we have our locals coming in every morning. We're made up. It's massive news."
Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), which runs the awards, said: "It's brilliant to see talent, passion, excellent professionalism and dedication to their craft on display. Every year, the Takeaway of the Year standard continues to rise and this new list of top 40 contenders exemplify that."
"It's the people behind these businesses that make our industry what it is. Recognition like this is about far more than trophies – it's about acknowledging the individuals who go above and beyond for their customers and communities every single day."
Evaluation and ceremony
The hopefuls will undergo a comprehensive evaluation covering product quality, hygiene, environmental and operational sustainability, customer service, industry knowledge and more. The winners will be announced at a ceremony on February 24, 2027.
