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The co-owners of Trethomas chippy Ship Deck have described their success at the National Fish and Chips Awards as “life-changing”, with entries for the 2025 awards open from today.

Partners Ryan and Kimberly Hughes opened Ship Deck five years ago to the day (Monday July 1), and celebrated in style after their chip shop on Newport Road was recently crowned the best in the UK.

Kimberly told Caerphilly Observer how the pair were “just hoping to make a living” when they opened the business in 2019 – and had no expectations of making it this big.

She continued: “We opened this place with nothing. We thought it would be a little village shop and keep us going.”

But fast forward to 2024 and they have lifted the coveted ‘takeaway of the year’ trophy – with Kimberly now describing life at Ship Deck as “crazy”.

“I remember speaking to one of the previous winners at the awards and they said we’ll probably see about ten days of madness then it’ll settle down.

“It just hasn’t stopped for us though. We came home from London and the next day we were in the shop with queues out the door. The amount of stock we’ve had coming on a daily basis has been crazy to see.”

Kimberly worked for the NHS before handing her notice in after winning the award in February. She explained how their success has put Trethomas on the map.

“We’ve had people from north Wales, Bristol, Cheltenham; you name it. We’re even taking Ship Deck to Japan in October as part of a British fair. We’re making sure we keep everything the same to offer a true experience.

“I think it has helped other businesses in the area too. The whole of Trethomas has been busier.”

Ryan admitted his life has changed since the win too. The former Young Fish Frier of the year was flown to Norway after the win to learn more about the industry, and how sustainability has become a growing consideration.

On his trip, Ryan said: “Sustainability is at the heart of our business, and in the roots of what we do. I’ve been in the fish and chip industry since I was 13-years-old, and I’d like to be in it for the rest of my working life.

“To see the passion and care behind the product we serve has been incredible – the fisherman put their heart and soul into it. To be aboard the vessel, and see the family operation behind it, you really get that feeling of community.”

The National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) today launched the 2025 awards from Ship Deck on Newport Road.

After the champagne was popped and confetti showered, Caerphilly Observer spoke to NFFF president, Andrew Crook: “What a day it is for Ship Deck and the area. It’s five years to the day this shop opened and what a fantastic setup it offers.

“It’s a very tough award to win, and I personally came here myself as a mystery shopper back last year. We like to keep the entries on their toes so we’ll be introducing a few twists this year as well.

“I wish Ryan and Kim all the best going forward in this wonderful little shop.”

Ryan continued: “We’ve had massive support from the community which is very important to us. We have 24 members of staff here now which is incredible.

“We’ve just got to keep pushing forward. Consistency is the key to success in anything and Ship Deck is no different.”

For more details on how to enter this year’s competition, visit the National Fish and Chip Awards’ website.