Colmans Fish & Chips in South Shields, Tyne & Wear, had the honour of serving comedian and presenter James Corden on Saturday night, with restaurant owner Richard Ord Jnr calling it “one for the memory books“.
The Gavin & Stacey star was in town to deliver a lecture at a local school as part of an annual tradition started by the region’s former MP David Miliband. After the event, guests are treated to fish and chips at David’s favourite restaurant. Previous attendees include Hillary Clinton, Sam Mendes, Danny Boyle, Sting, David Walliams, Patrick Stewart and Tony Blair.
Calling James “one of the nicest guests we’ve ever had”, Richard adds: “It’s always a great evening because the formalities are done at the lecture, so it’s all about winding down with a glass of wine and a good meal. James was fantastic – he visited every table, took photos, and made everyone feel special. The highlight, though, was when he came into the kitchen afterward to meet the team, answer questions and take selfies. Honestly, he was brilliant – and yes, very funny too!”
A team of 15 served 100 guests a set menu with fish and chips as the main course. James was clearly impressed. “I asked how it was,” said Richard, “and James said, ‘You know exactly how good it is!’ I’ll take that!”
The night had an unexpected twist when James revealed how he’d first heard of Colmans. “When I met James, he asked if we were going to Temple or Ocean Road. I was stunned he even knew!” says Richard. “He told me he had flown from Heathrow to Newcastle sat with a barrister from Bermuda. He got talking to her about coming to the north east to do a lecture and she asked him if he was going to get time to go to Colmans. So he checked his notes and lo and behold it said he was going to Colmans. He told me he had been stalking our social media ever since. I couldn’t believe it!”
Richard says the fun continues, wondering who Colmans will host next year!
