Pillings Fish and Chips named in English Fish and Chip Awards.

Pillings Fish and Chips, based on Ashburner Street Market, is the only Bolton shop to be shortlisted in any category at this year’s awards, earning a place in the North West Best Fish and Chip Shop category.

For Peter McGowan, 66, the recognition means far more than just an award nomination.

“It is very good news,” he said.

“We run it as a family. My wife’s father started the business in 1968 and I’ve worked here for the last 40 years.”

Pilling’s over the years (Image: Public)

Over the decades, Peter says the shop has become far more than just somewhere to buy fish and chips.

He said: “You get to meet a whole sway of people from all spectrums of society, from the richest to the poorest.

“Some customers come from Cheshire, and we’ve got a lot of people from Hong Kong living in Bolton now. It’s like a mini Hong Kong at times with all the regulars we see.”

Many of those regulars have been visiting the shop for longer than Peter himself has worked there.

“Some people have been coming in longer than I’ve been here,” he said.

“It’s meant a lot really. It’s just nice to get a little bit of recognition.”

Peter, who is also an ordained minister, says his connection with customers often goes beyond serving food.

“I’ve even done funerals for customers as well as fish and chips,” he said.

Despite the shop’s long history, this is the first time Pillings has entered the awards.

The family-run business remains at the heart of the McGowan family.

Run by family for generations (Image: Public)

Peter works alongside his wife Tracy, 65, daughter and long-serving staff member Elaine, who Peter describes as “part of the family”.

The wider family including his three grandchildren also help during school holidays or weekends.

“It gives them confidence and helps them go on to do better things,” he said.

“We’ve had people work here who’ve gone on to become scientists in Cambodia, social workers and all sorts.

“Ninety per cent of the people who’ve worked for me have gone on to better things.

“You meet different people and encourage them to do better. That’s what businesses need to do.”

Pillings has become known for its traditional approach and quality food, with Peter proud of the fresh cod and haddock served to loyal customers year after year.

Accommodating up to 80 people Pilling’s fish and chips isn’t just a takeaway (Image: Public)

Peter has also witnessed huge changes in Bolton during his four decades behind the fryer.

Like many businesses, the shop faced challenges after the Covid pandemic.

“A lot of older people never really came back after Covid,” he said.

“They lost confidence and mobility after being locked up for so long and you can understand that.”

Although the future of the business remains uncertain, with Peter admitting the next generation may not take over the 80-seat chip shop, he says the nomination is a proud moment for the family and the community around them.

For now, the McGowans are simply enjoying seeing their Bolton institution recognised on a national stage after nearly six decades of serving the town.