The owner of an award-winning fish and chip shop that was damaged in a kitchen fire has assured customers that it will return soon.

Part of Barracuda in Headstone Drive, Harrow, was destroyed in a blaze last Tuesday (September 3).

Four fire engines and 25 firefighters were called at 11.16am and it was eventually under control by 12.23pm.

A fire brigade spokesperson said: “Half of a ground-floor extension was destroyed by fire. Three people left the property before the arrival of the brigade. There are currently no reports of any injuries.”

The restaurant has remained shut since, but Yiannis Christofis has shared out a promising message to customers on social media.

He said: “Apologies for not being at the Barracuda cooking your fish and chips, where I thrive on being.

“As most of you know we've had the worst week ever at the Barracuda, where we’ve had a fire.”

“Thank God no one was hurt,” he added.

According to Mr Christofis, the fire was caused by a chip pan but the damage is minimal.

He went on to thank the fire brigade for their quick response and to all the customers who have offered their sympathies and support.

The owner said: “We will be back sooner rather than later, I promise you.”

A notice on its website says the restaurant is closed “until further notice".

Barracuda, which has been serving customers since 1998, won the prize for best fish and chip establishment in the Good Food Awards 2023.

Previously it also won other awards at the Good Food Awards in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

And now Mr Christofis has asked the community to show their support by voting for Barracuda once more, as it is a finalist in the ninth Food Awards England this year for the ‘best fish and chips establishment (south)’.

Anyone wishing to vote for Barracuda is asked to visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/The9thFoodAwardsEngland2024?fbclid=IwY2xjawFEShlleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHZUoMMMODrm0P-y0sQeZT4RbHl1DEONsrs3uu3EK-B64Q5o_nnu6upYAsw_aem_BHLjDG5pnsXbx5AylCXabQ