Abby days

So impressive was Abby Barker, back-of-house manager at Millers Fish & Chips, in this year’s Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year that the organisers introduced a runners-up award. Here, she shares her experience and her ambitions to go for the title again

Being named runner-up in the Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year Award felt a bit strange at first. Obviously, I wanted first place, so it was a mix of emotions, but afterwards, I realised how positive it actually was. This was only my second year entering the competition, and to be announced as runner-up – something Drywite has never done before – felt like a real achievement in itself. I received my feedback, started making a plan, and said, ‘Right, let’s get going again next year!’

The judges told me it was incredibly close between James and me, and that the improvements I’d both made deserved to be recognised, which meant a lot. It also gave me a clear idea of what to focus on next. I’d really like to get out of the shop more and see more of the industry, understand how other people work, because I love learning. Alongside that, it’s about fine-tuning the smaller details and ensuring everything is as close to 100% as possible.

The whole experience has built my confidence more than anything. It’s helped me believe in myself, trust my instincts and push myself further. When I first came into the industry and had my interview with Nick and David, I could already see there was a lot to it, but it’s amazing when you realise just how much goes into fish and chips. Even with something like potatoes, which you think you understand, I want to know more.

One of the parts of the job I enjoy most is teaching. I love learning, but being able to pass that knowledge on to my team is just as rewarding. It’s also challenged me, because I’ve realised that everyone learns differently. Sometimes it’s about explaining something in a new way, or approaching it from a different angle, just to help it click for someone. Seeing them grow in confidence and start to enjoy their job is one of the best parts of what I do.

Since being promoted to back-of-house manager in March, I’ve taken on responsibility for all the training, which has been a big step. We’ve got quite a young team, and for many of them it’s their first job, so I get to teach them the foundations of what work is, so things like responsibility, respect, and earning your own money. Nick and David have invested so much time in me and given me so many opportunities, being able to give that back to the team now means a lot.