A champion chippy is hoping to once again batter the opposition to prove it is the plaice to dine.

Henley's of Wivenhoe is bidding to reel in the prize catch of best fish and chip shop in Britain.

It landed third place in the competition last year, and has been a regular high-fryer in the national awards.

Henley's, on Vine Parade in the town, is one of five in the London and south east region shortlisted in the National Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Competition 2007.

Each shop will receive a visit from a mystery judge who will mark the quality of their fish and chips, customer service, hygiene, approaches to sustainable sourcing and staff training.

The highest scoring shop in the area will be announced in September along with 18 other area winners from across the UK.

Further in-depth judging will then whittle down those 19 area winners to reveal the top ten chippies in Britain in November.

The grand finale will take place in London in January 2008, and will be hosted by Ainsley Harriott.

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