THREE Wyre Forest fish and chip shop owners are frying the flag for the district after being shortlisted in a national competition.

Captain Cods and Foleys Fish Bar in Kidderminster, together with Catchems End Fish Bar in Bewdley, have been whittled down to the final regional 10 in the Fish & Chip Shop of the Year Competition 2006.

Each shop is now set to receive a visit from a mystery judge who will mark them on the quality of their fish and chips, customer service, hygeine and staff training. The area champion will be announced in September, along with 18 other winners from the UK.