YOU can’t walk into Altrincham Fish Bar, in Greenwood Street, without noticing a certificate proudly displayed in the window.

It says the popular fish and chip shop has won Best Overall results – dining – in the 2014 Mystery Shopper competition organised by Altrincham Forward.

Paul McDonald, 56, the fish and chip shop’s owner said: “Our score of 99 per cent was based on the appearance of staff, their friendliness and attitude, the quality of the product, cleanliness and local knowledge.”

The quality of their fish is hard to beat, as it is delivered fresh daily from Smithfield Market in Manchester.

Their haddock has an even shorter journey ¬– it is from Taylors, the fish stall on Altrincham Market.

Paul said: “I have been here for 23 years. In the 110 years it has been open I am only the fifth owner.

“My son, Anthony, will take over when I retire.

“He is now 32 and has been coming here since he was 10.”

At 9.15 in the morning, Anthony was helping his father set up for the day’s business.

He said: “The outside tables have worked well especially in fine weather.

“Hopefully the refurbishment of the market will bring in more people.”

Paul said: “Our shop has memories for many.

“People came here when they were young and they are now bringing their grandchildren in”.

He thanked staff both present and past for their contribution to the fish bar’s success.

“Their effort to build up a relationship with our customers has helped a lot.

“We thank our customers for their loyalty.”

The winner of the Best Retailer award went to Altrincham Library.