WE'RE highlighting the shortlisted chippies in our competition in the News & Star. Each of the establishments will be featured over the following issues.

The Dalston Fryer, which is owned by Ibrahim Kocaturkmen, is fronted by manager Carla Barros.

After being informed that The Dalston Fryer has been nominated as a finalist in the News & Star's 'Best Chippy 2024' award, Carla expressed her delight and thanked the Fryer's customers for their support.

She said: "We have worked very hard for this nomination, we really have.

"As you know we are in the village, it is not like a city centre location so we really rely on our regulars and we work hard.

"It is hard to keep the customers coming so it is our focus to keep them happy while providing good quality products.

"A happy customer always comes back and a business without customers does not work.

"For them to trust us time after time and keep coming back is the best thing that can happen."

For Carla, the reason that The Dalston Fryer is so popular is due to the unwavering quality of its fish which is prioritised by herself and the chippy's owner.

She said: "I think mainly it is the quality of our fish. This is a very traditional fish and chip shop.

"Our regulars are mainly elderly and they come for the quality of our fish.

"We really try to keep good quality fish and at the moment that is hard because there is a shortage of fish in the market.

"The fish that is available is expensive but the owner and myself as the manager, do not compromise on the quality of the fish at all."

Carla also highlighted the community aspect of The Dalston Fryer and the connection the chippy has with its customers.

She said: "The customers come from the village and while they are waiting they talk to each other and talk to us.

"Me and my staff always take the time to speak with our customers and I think they really appreciate it, but we appreciate that as well.

"It is not just come in and go out and is what makes the job worthwhile."