AN award-winning restaurant in Helmsley is flying the flag for fish and chips in the Small Business of the Year category.

Local favourite Scotts of Helmsley is at the heart of the town’s independent business-driven community and is headed by Tony Webster who took over the shop in March 2013.

His investment in the development and training of staff has contributed to the success of the restaurant of 75 covers, with sales doubling over the first year.

Mr Webster said: "There was a significant refurbishment and rebranding early last year and we have now developed into an attraction and a reason to visit Helmsley.

"With the success of this restaurant, we have decided to open a second venue with 110 covers and take away options near Bilbrough."

This year, the restaurant was awarded the Fish and Chip Quality Award by the National Federation of Fish Fryers.

Keen to serve all customers, Scotts has developed a special menu to cater for various allergies and intolerances, designed to ensure that whoever visits can have an enjoyable eating experience.

Such is Mr Webster’s dedication, he attended, alongside chef manager Shane Wight, the National Federation three day course last year, and four staff completed on-site training this year.

The restaurant, which is sponsoring the kit for the local football team, has developed such a strong client base and as such, word of this popular fish and chip business has spread by mouth.

Mr Webster added: "When customers visit Scotts, by ensuring they have a great experience, they go away and talk about us.

"This results in new customers visiting for the first time and so the cycle continues."