NATIONAL FISH & CHIP AWARDS HONOURS ‘THE DARLING OF THE INDUSTRY’

National Fish & Chip Awards honours ‘the darling of the industry’ with Outstanding Contribution accolade. David Miller of Millers Fish & Chips in Haxby near York, Yorkshire, was presented with the National Fish & Chip Awards’ Outstanding Contribution prize, a prestigious honour awarded to the industry’s most esteemed and dedicated figures.

The UK’s official fish and chip competition is recognised across every corner of the sector, and the Outstanding Contribution award pays tribute to an individual who has made a powerful and lasting mark on the trade. It celebrates great leadership, innovation and unwavering commitment to providing support and guidance which helps raise standards, inspires at all levels and safeguards the nation’s iconic fish and chip heritage.

The awards judges say that there are few people in the industry who are as universally respected and genuinely loved as David, describing him as ‘the darling of fish and chip industry’. A trusted person everyone reaches out to for advice, support or a friendly listening ear, David has earned himself the reputation as one of the most approachable and generous leaders.

As former head trainer at the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) Training Academy, he has played a pivotal role in developing the next generation of professional friers. Many who have passed through his leadership and guidance have gone on to enjoy highly successful careers, evidence of the impact his belief in others and confidence he instils in them has.

As a champion of sustainability, new fish species and encouraging responsible sourcing he also maintains strong relationships with suppliers and is instrumental in shaping a stronger future for the trade he loves. Married to Lesley as well as being a devoted father, his strong family values underpin the commitment and integrity he brings to the industry.

The announcement was met with a standing ovation from the hundreds of guests at the ceremony. David says of the recognition:

“To be nominated by your peers is an absolute privilege and a pinnacle moment in my career. It was amazing to be invited on stage after hearing all the kind words spoken. When people say it’s well-deserved, it’s just amazing! Fish and chips is my life and has always been, so I am extremely honoured to receive this incredible accolade.”

The National Fish & Chip Awards has been rewarding excellence since 1988, and the organiser of the cornerstone prize-giving event is the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF). Its President Andrew Crook congratulates David:

“The fish and chip industry is built on passion, hard graft and an incredible community of people. The Outstanding Contribution award is reserved for individuals who go to extraordinary lengths to keep the chippy tradition at the forefront of the British culinary experience.

“David is one of the true gentlemen of the industry, a genuinely amazing man with a love for people and great food. He has impressive depth of knowledge, great vision and focus on excellence. He nurtures talent, champions sustainability and is selfless with his time and sharing his expertise with people from all levels across the wider industry.”

Andrew continues:

“He is a rare individual with wonderful influence that is strengthening the future of the industry. It’s a privilege to present David with this well-deserved award and it’s truly a win for all of us in the fish and chip trade.”

David and the other winners from the awards have been invited on an exclusive study trip to Norway, hosted on board the long-liner vessel Geir, where they will see first-hand how Norwegian seafood is responsibly sourced at sea. The visit will give operators direct insight into the country’s science-led fisheries model, helping to bring origin, provenance and sustainability to life.

For more information and bits on the National Fish & Chip Awards, please visit: www.nfff.co.uk/awards.

Image: NFFF