A HAMPSHIRE fish and chip shop is hoping to batter its opposition in a national competition this month.

Winchester’s The Plaice is just two weeks away from being crowned National Fish and Chip Shop of the Year for 2008.

After beating more than 700 UK shops the chippie on Priors Dean Road, in Harestock, will be up against just nine other restaurants on January 22. Owner Chris Pittaras’ brilliant batter has already proved worth its salt with a host of judges to become the Central and South England’s winning shop.

Chris, 42, who has owned the shop for 16 years, said: “We always get good feedback from customers. They come in over and over again over the years. We have seen their children grow up and we have a good relationship with the community.”