“IT is no surprise” that Southend has more fish and chips than anywhere else in the UK, a leading councillor says.

A recent study, by ukphonebook.com, found Southend has 75 businesses classed as fish and chip shops.

This is more than anywhere else in the country - Swansea is in second with 56, and Brighton third with 50.

Daniel Nelson, councillor responsible for economic growth and investment, said: “It is no surprise we have more fish and chips than any other place in the UK because we are also the best seaside resort to visit in the UK.

"There is nothing more quintessentially British than a trip to the seaside with a bag of chips, and whether you are walking on our famous prom and or enjoying the view from the world’s longest pleasure pier, Southend and its wonderful chippies offer everything that is great about the great British seaside.”

We also asked Echo Facebook users what their favourite fish and chip shop was in Southend.

Anthony Lloyd said: “Oldham’s gets my vote. Fantastic service, great value, sensational fish.”

Yvonne Carter wrote: “Ye Old Chippy. Food is great, very friendly, and great service.”

Adrian Green added: “Van Looy’s Fish & Chips. I will happily walk past a couple of others to get to this one.”