Paul joined Hodgson's Chippy some two and a half years ago having trained in the catering division of the local power station. Linda and Nigel Hodgson have an eye for detail, which they have passed on to Paul who is now well trained, articulate and professional. Paul has also trained under the Seafish Quality Award Scheme and holds Foundation in Food Hygiene Certificate and is working towards Advanced. He has a new qualification in fish frying skills developed by Seafish and the NFFF and plans to attend NFFF Fish Frying School in August 2005.

Paul presents himself well and copes very well under pressure - in fact on the day of the visit he was frying with confidence on a brand new Kiremko range which had only been fitted the day before.

Paul comments, " I have a professional and dedicated attitude to fish frying and endeavour for a perfect product, prepared in clean and hygienic areas. I have a confident and friendly personality and take great pride in all that I do. I have immense respect for the Young Fish Frier of the Year Competition and I desire recognition within the industry.

Paul told the Fish Frier's Review that he had attended Bentham Grammar School, close to Lancaster and passed eight GCSE examinations. He has also represented his local professional football team. Paul's other hobbies are cricket and socialising with his many friends and girlfriend, Louise.

Since leaving school, Paul has held a number of jobs, spending 2 years in catering at the Heysham Power Station, which he said he enjoyed very much. During the time there, he achieved the Food Hygiene and Safety in the Workplace Award.

Paul said "winning the Young Fish Frier of the year award is my biggest achievement since being in the industry and I feel very honoured to have received this accolade. I am now looking at the Seafish fish frying skills course and one day I would like to own a successful business within the trade"

Date : 10-04-2005