Lakeside Fish and Chips awarded top ten in the country

Lakeside fish and chip shop has been selected as one of the top ten best fish and chip restaurants in the UK, according to Fry Magazine.

The family-owned business, which opened in 1987, won the award on March 13 following a visit from a mystery diner who deemed it 'flawless.'

Visits from mystery diners are unannounced while they 'meticulously' inspect elements including food quality, premises cleanliness, staff expertise, value for money, ease of ordering and social media presence.'

Jason Leese runs Lakeside fish and chips with his brother Wayne. He has been working at the family business since he was 15.

Jason said: "To be listed as one of the country's top ten fish and chips means the world to us.

"There are over 10,000 in the UK, so to be in the top ten is a major achievement for the team.

"We are a family-run business and have done well to achieve this, especially in these looming times. It has been really uplifting."

Lakeside serves sustainable produce and is MSC Blue Fish certified. It offers local and seasonal seafood.

The cod comes from the north-east Arctic cod stock whilst its haddock is line caught.

Jason said: "We believe the future of fish and chips is making it affordable. So we recently dropped our prices by 20 per cent on the takeaway.

"We want to ensure fish and chips remains the nation's favourite dish, making it available for everyone.

"Fish and chips are classless; everyone can enjoy it, from royalty to ordinary people."

Lakeside is situated at Lifeboat Quay.

Jason said the restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows, so guests can overlook Poole Harbour while enjoying their meal.

He said: "We are really lucky to be in this location. We get some incredible views and fantastic sunsets."

Jason added: "We have an incredible 30 staff who are all dedicated to providing the best quality products with outstanding customer service.

"We are only as good as our last meal and are proud of what we do."