CHIPPIES in Wyre Forest hope to get the 'batter' of the opposition in a competition to find the Midlands' best fish and chip shop.

Four of the district's chippies have entered the National Fish and Chip Shop of the Year 2004 competition and are among contenders for the regional title.

They are PP Caterers, of Sutton Road, Kidderminster, Folwy's Fish Bar, Stourport Road, Kidderminster, Catchems End Fish Bar, Kidderminster Road, Bewdley and Captain Cod's Restaurant, Comberton Hill, Kidderminster.

The Wyre Forest chippies are among 90 vying for the West Midlands crown. Mystery judges will visit the top 15, scoring them in categories including customer service and overall presentation.

The top Midlands one will be announced in September, with a chance of making a national shortlist of 10, before the national champion is announced in January.