Jack Spencer was scrolling through Facebook when he spotted a post with information he has been nervously waiting for.

Jack Spencer, 19, who works at Queens Drive Fish and Chip shop in Ossett, has been named as one of the top five in the Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year and will now head to London for The National Fish and Chip Awards in London on February 25 to see if he wins the title.

Jack, who has worked at Queens Drive for two-and-a-half years, is up against four other friers, all under the age of 25, who have all faced pressure-filled live tasks and interviews, showcasing their understanding the ‘end-to-end cooking process'.

Psychology student Jack, who is in his first year at Manchester Metropolitan University and hopes to go into teaching, was encouraged to apply by his manager, David Bell, who himself was a ‘runner up’ in the Young Fish Frier Awards in 2001.

He said: “I was just scrolling through Facebook when I came across a post from the National Federation of Fish Fryers announcing the top five.

"I nervously scrolled down the list of names – and there was mine, right at the very bottom!

"I was absolutely ecstatic to find out I’m in the top five and immediately told my friends and family and work colleagues.

“To say I entered thinking it would be a bit of fun, four rounds later and being able to attend the awards ceremony, I’m absolutely baffled.

“I just want to thank the whole team at Queens Drive for helping me build my skills to the level it’s at, especially Dave, Richard, Jackie, Tracie and Lisa.”

Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers, said on the successful finalists: “The confidence, maturity and talent we have seen from each of the contestants this year has been absolutely superb.

“We’re also proud of how they are supporting one another even though they’re competing against each other – these are wonderful signs of leadership and integrity.

"A huge thank you to their respective employers too for providing unwavering encouragement and opportunities for emerging high achievers.”

The champion will receive the Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year award on 25 February at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London.