Award-winning chippy serves up new venture

A County Durham-based food business is scaling up after national recognition.

Darlington’s Yarm Road Fish and Chips, recently crowned Fish and Chip Takeaway of the Year 2025 at the National Fish & Chip Awards, is expanding into a new restaurant space. 

The family-run business, opened eight years ago by husband-and-wife duo Graeme and Julie Burrell, has become a local favourite, known for its homemade fish cakes, traditional beef dripping and secret recipe batter. 

Following the high-profile win, the team has acquired the neighbouring unit – a former newsagents – to create a sit-in restaurant alongside their takeaway. 

The expansion marks the latest milestone for the award-winning business, which regularly serves hundreds of customers a day and uses more than 600kg of chips during peak periods. 

The Yarm Road Fish and Chips team celebrate being crowned Fish and Chip Takeaway of the Year 2025 at the National Fish & Chip Awards

Graeme said: “We still can’t quite believe we took the top prize – after the third and second place takeaways were named, we didn’t think for a moment that we would have won first place. 

“For our shop in Darlington to win is a dream come true.

“Our team have put their heart and soul into making this happen, and we’re so proud to bring the award home to our town. 

“The support from our customers and the wider community has meant the world to us.”

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen visited the shop on Friday, June 13 to congratulate Graeme and Julie Burrell, along with their son Will – and to collect a jumbo order to take back to the office.

Mayor Houchen added: “This is a fantastic local success story. 

Graeme, Julie and Will have built something really special - a family-run business that’s proudly putting Darlington on the map.

“Winning a national award like this is no small feat, especially in such a competitive field. 

“It shows the quality, the passion, and the work ethic behind every portion they serve.

“It’s another example of the brilliant businesses we have across our region - and I can’t wait to see their new restaurant open its doors very soon.”

The new restaurant is expected to open later this year.

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