Dan's the Man-gan!

National Fish & Chip Awards lands top TV talent to host 2026 awards

British actor, comedian, presenter and award winning author Stephen Mangan has been announced as the official host of the National Fish & Chip Awards 2026 which is recognised as the leading competition for fish and chip owners.

A hugely versatile performer, award-winning Stephen is best known for his radio show on Classic FM, presenting Portrait Artist of the Year on Sky Arts and the hugely popular game show Fortune Hotel, along with the ITV drama The Split and sitcom Green Wing, and famously playing Dan in Alan Partridge too.

Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), oversees the industry’s most rigorous awards process, says: “We’re delighted that Stephen will be hosting our 2026 awards, he has the perfect balance of enthusiasm and positivity as well as of course being incredibly funny, so he’ll be a great hit with the audience.

“This coming awards is truly going to be our best yet with so many exceptional businesses as finalists across every category and with the support of our main sponsor, Seafood from Norway, the ceremony provides a fantastic stage to showcase this talent.

“The National Fish & Chip Awards is regarded as the most prestigious competition of its kind in the UK and every single chippy that has successfully reached this stage has been through a comprehensive appraisal to ensure industry standards remain at their highest. This is why we carefully consider who the host will be as they must be a good fit for the event. Stephen is undoubtedly that and with his presenting credentials, ability to captivate an audience and passion for entertaining, the day will be even more special for our guests.”

The National Fish & Chip Awards is now in its 38^th year and is taking place on 25 February at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London. It champions businesses and individuals throughout the UK (and internationally) that are making outstanding contributions to foodservice whilst encouraging standards across the industry to reach new heights.

Award categories include Takeaway of the Year, Restaurant of the Year, Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year, Field to Frier, Employee of the Year, Environment and Sustainable Business, Newcomer of the Year, Mobile Operator of the Year, International Fish and Chip Operator of the Year, Training and Development, Marketing Initiative of the Year, Quality Accreditation Champion and Community Engagement. The 2026 awards also welcome a brand-new category to the line-up, which is Menu Innovation.

You are invited to the National Fish & Chip Awards 2026! Get your tickets here: https://thefishandchipawards.com/event-tickets/.

For more information and bits on the National Fish & Chip Awards, please visit: www.thefishandchipawards.com.

About the National Fish & Chip Awards:

The National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) is the organiser of the National Fish and Chip Awards and 2026 marks the 38^th edition. It is open to all UK fish and chip businesses, with overseas operators welcome to enter the international category. As it’s run by the industry’s association, the expert guidance offered to entrants is of an exceptional level. In-depth scrutiny within the judging process covers every aspect of businesses – food, hygiene, sustainability (produce and operational practices), customer service, and industry knowledge. This ensures the nation receives high-quality food and an overall standout experience, while professionals in the industry have access to opportunities to further their growth. The awards also recognise fish and chip shops which are investing in their communities, making a difference to the environment around them and boosting the local economy. The principal sponsor for the 2026 awards is Seafood from Norway.

About the Norwegian Seafood Council:

The Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC) works with the Norwegian seafood industry and local partners to develop markets for Norwegian seafood. The NSC is headquartered in Tromsø and maintains local representatives in Norway's most important international markets. The “Seafood from Norway” mark of origin is a symbol of origin for all Norwegian seafood. To learn more about Norway’s unique location, diverse seafood, generations of experience, and industry-leading sustainable fishing techniques, go to: www.seafoodfromnorway.co.uk