Fish and chip restaurant plans expansion as it lands award nomination

A flourishing family business is celebrating successful times by becoming an awards backer.
Sponsor of the WOW247 Awards, Downey's
Owner's from left brother's Gareth and Glen Downey with staff Anastasia GhadakzadehSponsor of the WOW247 Awards, Downey's
Owner's from left brother's Gareth and Glen Downey with staff Anastasia Ghadakzadeh
Sponsor of the WOW247 Awards, Downey's Owner's from left brother's Gareth and Glen Downey with staff Anastasia Ghadakzadeh

Downey’s Fish and Chip Restaurant, in Roker and Seaham, is backing the WOW247 Awards and has also been nominated in the Restaurant of the Year category.

The successful firm plans to expand its Seaham base - the very place where the business first set up.

Sponsor of the WOW247 Awards, Downey's
Owner's from left brother's Gareth and Glen DowneySponsor of the WOW247 Awards, Downey's
Owner's from left brother's Gareth and Glen Downey
Sponsor of the WOW247 Awards, Downey's Owner's from left brother's Gareth and Glen Downey
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Glen Downey runs it and three other brothers - Ty, Gareth and Lee - are also involved. Dad Michael has also been involved in the industry. Glen explained why the firm is backing the awards which are run by the Sunderland Echo and its sister paper the Shields Gazette.

“We were the only fish and chip shop to be finalists in the competition in its first year. We went along and it was a really good night.

“We were aware of the competition and it is good for the community.”

Downey’s has also been nominated for his year’s competition and one of the nominations said: “Best restaurant ever. Food is delicious and staff are very happy and friendly.”

Sponsor of the WOW247 Awards, Downey's
Owner's from left brother's Gareth and Glen DowneySponsor of the WOW247 Awards, Downey's
Owner's from left brother's Gareth and Glen Downey
Sponsor of the WOW247 Awards, Downey's Owner's from left brother's Gareth and Glen Downey
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Glen explained: “We are extending and doubling the size of the Seaham business. We want to address the demand by having a bigger range and doubling the size of the sitting area.”

We want to find the best in South Tyneside and Wearside’s arts, culture, hospitality and leisure scene.

Nominations can be sent in until the deadline of February 1. After that, judges will draw up a shortlist in each category. This year, the competition is backed by UK Asbestos Specialists (UKasl), The Marsden Grotto Private Beach and Downey’s Fish and Chip Restaurant in Roker and Seaham. The Best Western Roker Hotel will host the finale of our competition – held in association with our weekly entertainments guide, Wow 24/7 - on Thursday, February 25. To nominate, fill in the form on this page or visit www.jpne-events.co.uk.