TWO chippies in the west of Scotland will battle it out to be crowned best in Scotland.

Fast food outlets across the UK are hoping to be recognised in the National Fish and Chip Awards 2015.

Among the favourites to be shortlisted are Dinos Takeaway, in Ayr, and Palombos Fish and Chips, in ­Alexandria, West Dunbartonshire.

To reach this stage of the competition the shops have had to fry at the top of their game to secure their place in the top 60 in the UK.

Each chippy has been judged by industry experts and visited by a mystery diner.

They are assessed on criteria, which includes product quality, sustainable sourcing, marketing and customer service.

This next stage will determine the best two fish and chip take­aways in Scotland, which will then compete for the prestigious 'regional' title.

The hard work will culminate in an awards ceremony in London on January 20.

Paul Williams, chief executive of Seafish, said: "These awards have not only improved the industry standards by consistently rewarding and testing businesses, they have also raised positive awareness of the issues surrounding sustainable fishing practices and encouraged shops to implement sustainable sourcing.

"Last year we witnessed some of the highest calibre of entrants ever. The bar is constantly rising and we can't wait to see the top fryers battle it out this year."

In October, Seafish will announce the top 10 regional shops competing for the flagship award. These shops will then be invited on a study trip to Norway, organised by award sponsor the Norwegian Seafood Council.

rachel.loxton@eveningtimes.co.uk