One of Cumbria's most successful chip shops is defying the current economic climate and taking to the road with a newly-expanded fleet.

The team at award winning Shap Chippy have now launched a second fish and chip van, taking more of the nation's favourite takeaway on the road.

The new van will be based in Appleby at a purpose-built unit which houses a professional preparatory kitchen. It is part of the growing Shappy Wheels brand, run by co-owners Matt and Ashley Phillips, who took over Shap Chippy in July 2018.

Matt Phillips said it was a "true blessing" to be able to expand "during these crazy Covid times".

The addition of a second van comes just six months after Matt and Ashley launched their first, which Matt puts down to the strength of support shown by Cumbrian communities for their venture.

"The local communities have been such an amazing support and we wanted to bring fish and chips to more people each week," he said.

Co-owner Ashley added that the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has been a particularly appropriate time to develop their Shappy Wheels business.

‘We feel that it’s so important to support the local communities, now more than ever," he said.

"To have a chippy van come to your village where you may be locked down and not had a treat like a chippy tea in ages is just the best feeling for both us and the customer."

Shap Chippy was crowned the second best fish and chip shop in the UK at this year's National Fish and Chip Awards, and has just been awarded the highest food hygiene rating of five by Eden Council.