Yarm Road Fish & Chips, Darlington on Best Chippy 2026 list
Yarm Road Fish & Chips, which has been owned by Graeme and Julie Burrell and their son Will for the last eight years, is in the awards list after customers nominated it.
After the competition nomination, Will has recognised the role of the fish and chip shop’s customers, saying, “Our business would be absolutely nothing without them.”
“Our customers are very loyal to us and have backed us over the last eight years, which is great,” he added.
“I’m pleased that they’ve recognised us in this competition.
“Our mantra is simple – do the basics right and sort out the fundamentals, and it’s that simple.
“Do the cleanliness side perfectly, have a good presentation in the shop and deliver consistency and quality every time.
“That’s what every chippy strives for, and every customer looks for – consistency and high quality.”
This nomination for Yarm Road Fish & Chips isn’t the first time the chippy has been up for an award.
In 2025, the venue won was named Fish and Chip Takeaway of the Year 2025 at the National Fish & Chip Awards, while also picking up the Training and Development award for staff at the 2026 ceremony.
It was also able to expand in 2025, opening a restaurant next to the existing takeaway.
Despite its success, Will recognises the difficulties with running a fish and chip shop at the moment, including rising costs across the board.
“There are a lot of people trying to diversify the fish and chip world,” he added.
“Overheads with electricity and other overheads have gone through the roof.
“It’s been a hard time for the industry, but we will get through it together.
“The North East is lucky that it’s packed with lots of incredible fish and chip shops, and it’s a stronghold for fish and chips.
“In County Durham and Darlington, there’s a lot of impressive names, so to be nominated for competitions is a real honour.”
Yarm Road Fish & Chips is one of 10 finalists in The Northern Echo Best Chippy 2026 contest.
Each shortlisted nominee will be featured in The Northern Echo over the next two weeks.
To vote for your favourite, fill in the voting slip on your paper and post the coupon to: The Northern Echo Best Chippy 2026, LocalIQ House, 1 Dalston Road, Carlisle, CA2 5NP.
Voting ends June 17, and the winner will be announced once votes are counted.