fishing

Comedian Bob Mortimer shared a “sad” update on the Gone Fishing favourite’s health.

Bob Mortimer has shared a “sad” update on his beloved Gone Fishing co-star, their dog Ted. The comedian has fronted the beloved BBC programme with Paul Whitehouse since 2018.

Over that period, with the eighth series currently airing, Ted has frequently joined them, but during an appearance on Saturday Kitchen today, (29 November), Bob shared a concerning update.

When host Matt Tebbutt asked how Ted was doing, Bob jokingly put on a voice, imitating: “I’m alright mate.”

He then added: “No, he’s knocking on a bit.”

Bob revealed Ted was 15 years old, saying: “He still loves coming out with us, and he seems very happy.”

“I was quite sad when I saw him being wheeled around,” Matt replied.

Bob continued: “He doesn’t have to be wheeled around all the time, but for longer journeys, up the river bank, we put him in a pram now.”

Teasing the final episode of Gone Fishing, Bob went on to say “it’s a beauty,” adding: “It’s odd that people like it so much, but I kind of get it.

“We make the UK look really pretty – it’s nice to be reminded occasionally.”

This comes after Bob addressed his own health, revealing he’s ignored doctor’s orders to cut back on cheese after suffering a health scare.

The 66-year-old admitted he would rather “have three years less” than change his diet after having a triple heart bypass surgery.

Bob underwent the operation in 2015 after thinking he was suffering from a chest infection, and he later discovered 95% of his arteries were blocked.

He had been warned by his doctor that he would have had a heart attack on stage, and was forced to cancel tour dates with comedy partner Vic Reeves.

Despite the scare, he’s willing to take risks when it comes to giving up one of his favourite foods, telling The Daily Mail: “The dietitian said, ‘You can have a matchbox-size [piece] every week’.

“That broke my heart. There are probably those who do stick to it, but I’m probably in the school of thought that I’d rather have three years less.”

Last year, Bob opened up about his health struggles after facing shingles, and having to use a wheelchair while filming Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing.

He revealed he “wasn’t very well” and had to be “looked after” by co-star Paul after he was left unable to walk due to a six-month battle with the condition.

He said: “I wasn’t very well and it made it a bit of a struggle but, as always, Paul looked after me and pulled me through.”

The Last One Laughing star went on to say that he was getting better, while trying to “grow muscle back”.

He previously shared: “I got a bit unlucky with it, I lost the use of one of my legs but it’s coming back now, I’m a bit limpy but I’m very grateful to be back up and going.”

Saturday Kitchen airs at 10am on BBC One and iPlayer.

Northumberland is home to a charming seaside village that’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike – and it’s not hard to see why with its stunning views and fresh fish and chips

Drawing in visitors from across the Northeast, this charming seaside village boasts stunning natural beauty, positioned just a stone’s throw from the Scottish border.

Families and international tourists alike flock to the picturesque seaside village of Seahouses, using it as a convenient base for their adventures. With Northumberland National Park and the Farne Islands within easy reach, the village serves as an ideal stopping point for sightseers exploring the region.

Seahouses sits within the Northumberland Coast National Landscape, a protected area celebrated for its outstanding natural beauty and diverse wildlife. This prime location provides the village with breathtaking vistas, excellent walking trails and outdoor pursuits that let visitors truly connect with nature.

One visitor shared on TripAdvisor: “The beaches are so spacious, sandy and peaceful – even in peak season you can find space to enjoy the tranquillity. Head out for an early morning walk and you can have the whole beach to yourself. Stunning sunrises and sunsets.”

The village also attracts food lovers eager to sample its renowned fish and chips whilst taking in the coastal scenery, as Seahouses maintains an active fishing harbour. This working port helps support the tourism industry whilst delivering an authentic taste of British seaside cuisine, complemented by spectacular views.

Famed for serving kippers, the village boasts a rich heritage steeped in fishing and preparing this particular fish using age-old techniques dating back to 1843. This means Seahouses is recognised as the birthplace of the modern kipper, where it’s believed to have been created.

A standout destination for this is the renowned Swallowfish, an essential stop for food enthusiasts in the region. One visitor commented: “This is the real thing with regard to smoked fish; can’t be compared to supermarket kippers with artificial colouring and flavours.”

Meanwhile, nestled directly across from Seahouses lie the Farne Islands, popular with holidaymakers who frequently catch a boat from the village harbour to discover up to 20 of the small islands. During their excursion, many visitors head over to view the Longstone Lighthouse, constructed way back in 1926, as they journey across to the islands.

One review states: “We saw this lighthouse en route to the Farne Islands, and it was given the wow factor. It’s not every day you see a traditional lighthouse in this condition.”

Another commented: “Caught an organised boat trip from Seahouses. Golden Gate that includes landing and a visit inside the Lighthouse. Taking dogs is no problem. Some breathtaking views, seals, birds, and waves. Perhaps not for the faint-hearted in October, but well worth it.”

Whether you’re drawn to the stunning vistas, the scrumptious grub or using it as a pit stop between Northumberland’s islands, Seahouses has more to offer than what first meets the eye. Nestled just about 12 miles north of Alnwick and a tad over an hour from Newcastle’s bustling city centre, it’s ideally situated for you to discover its allure.

The Norwegian Fjords have been named the world’s most beautiful cruise destination, boasting picture-perfect landscapes, dramatic rocky coastlines, and charming fishing villages

Cruise fans have crowned the world’s most picturesque cruise destination, and it’s a stone’s throw away for Brits – nestled right here in Europe. The Norwegian Fjords are already a must-see on any travel enthusiast’s list.

In the spring and summer months, passengers can feast their eyes on the breathtaking views of the dramatic rocky landscapes, lush greenery, quaint fishing villages and idyllic waterfront towns that could easily grace a postcard. As winter sets in, the Fjords transform into a magical winter wonderland. Additionally, from October to February, certain regions offer the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

In fact, the night skies are set to become even more spectacular.

If you’ve always dreamt of ticking the Aurora Borealis off your bucket list, then a cruise in January or February 2026 might be just the ticket. This is because 2026 is predicted to be the best year in a decade for viewing the Northern Lights, thanks to a once-in-a-decade phenomenon known as the solar maximum.

This rare event occurs when the Sun’s heightened magnetic activity releases charged particles that collide with Earth’s atmosphere, resulting in brighter and more frequent auroras, reports the Express.

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Scientists anticipate this spectacle to peak by March 2026, before gradually fading again until the mid-2030s.

The closer you are to the Arctic Circle, the better your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. So, if you’re looking to maximise your chances, consider heading to Tromsø, the Lofoten Islands, Alta, or Svalbard.

But if you’re after more than just chasing the Aurora, the Norwegian Fjords could be the perfect blend of adventure and opportunity to see those mesmerising green skies.

Even without the Northern Lights, there’s plenty to see and do in this stunning region. The breathtaking landscapes have been a source of inspiration for poets, novelists, and artists for generations.

Nestled among awe-inspiring mountains and valleys, these narrow fjords boast everything from stunning waterfalls to incredible glaciers. It’s this abundance of natural beauty that has led the Norwegian Fjords to be named the world’s most beautiful cruise destination by Cruise118.com.

Sharon Hodgkiess, Sales and Customer Experience Director for the brand, said: “Seeing Norway from the deck of a ship is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Each fjord has its own charm, including sights such as mountains, waterfalls, hamlets and mountainside farms.”

If you’re considering a cruise for your next holiday, Sharon has some advice.

She suggests: “Think carefully about what you want from your cruise and select one that aligns with your travel style and interests. If you love nature and scenery, Norway or Alaska are unbeatable. If you’re after sun and relaxation, lean more towards destinations such as the East and West Mediterranean.”

Got a travel tale to tell? Drop us an email at [email protected]

If traditional British cuisine is your thing, you might want to head to this pretty village in the north east

Tucked away in the northeast of England lies one of Britain’s most picturesque villages.

Sitting high above the North Yorkshire Moors, the seaside treasure of Staithes was formerly a thriving fishing harbour in the North East.

Rich in heritage, Staithes is also home to one of the area’s best Sunday roasts, dished up at The Captain Cook Inn.

The Captain Cook Inn boasts an enviable location, set amongst the clifftops with sweeping views across the charming cobbled lanes and peaceful shoreline beneath.

Customers have flocked to Tripadvisor to sing the praises of the pub’s roast dinners, reports the Express.

One delighted customer declared: “Had a fabulous Sunday Roast, plenty of it and the beef was so tender and very moreish!”.

Sharing this view, another guest commented: “The meal was absolutely delicious. The meat was so tender and the vegetables were al dente. Just how we like them. Big fluffy Yorkshire and rich gravy. Could have eaten a whole plate of their roast potatoes.”

Alongside the celebrated roast, the establishment serves traditional favourites including steak pie, scampi and chips, and golden whitebait for starters.

Ale lovers can enjoy a range of brews, including the signature tipple, Northern Navigator, produced specially for the inn by the North Yorkshire Brewery, just 15 miles down the road.

Little wonder that The Captain Cook Inn received Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award. Visitors to the village can delve into its rich history, which is dominated by its most famous historical figure – Captain James Cook.

The Staithes Heritage Centre and Captain Cook Museum offer a trip back in time, recreating the shop where the famed explorer once worked as a grocer’s apprentice.

This delightful centre is filled with a collection that includes books, letters, and medals, transporting visitors back to the era of Captain Cook.

Staithes, also known for its vibrant artistic heritage, was once home to a significant group of artists known as the “Staithes group” or the “Northern Impressionists”.

Today, the pride of the village, the Staithes Gallery, showcases an impressive range of contemporary artwork, including paintings, photographs, and sculptures, all inspired by the charming village and its scenic surroundings.

For those interested in prehistoric discoveries, Staithes sits on the renowned Dinosaur Coast, offering plenty of opportunities for uncovering the past.

Tucked away within the village’s harbour is the sheltered Staithes Beach; when the tide goes out, it reveals a captivating world of rockpools filled with fossils and tiny sea creatures, providing endless fascination for any keen fossil hunter.

Further escapades await along the Cleveland Way National Trail, a 109-mile stretch that offers breathtaking views, from dramatic moorlands to historic coastal castles and quaint fishing villages, running from Filey to Helmsley.

After your adventures, relax at the quayside at the Cod and Lobster pub, renowned for its extensive seafood menu including its signature dish: a delicious pan-fried Cod Fillet served with a rich Lobster Bisque, homemade Potato Rosti and spinach, topped with a juicy Lobster tail or Claw.

Not to be overlooked, the Cod and Lobster also serve up mouth-watering hot and cold sandwiches alongside traditional pub favourites.

Finally, end your day with a visit to Dotty’s Vintage Tearoom, where you can enjoy a taste of yesteryear with their delightful homemade cheese or fruit scones, hearty toasties, and a comforting brew.

Staithes, while being acknowledged as one of the most picturesque villages, also boasts a rich history, exciting adventures, and first-rate cuisine.

The top fish and chip takeaways and restaurants across the UK have been listed, with some surprising entries

As the year draws nearer to a close, it’s time to celebrate the very best of tasty food, as the Fry Awards announce their top spots for fish and chips in the UK.

Fry Magazine has yet again unveiled its ruling of the 50 best fish and chip takeaways, alongside their top 10 restaurants. These results come after months of judges secretly assessing fish and chip shops nationwide, assessing them on key things such as their food quality, cleanliness, staff, and value for money.

It was only those with the highest scores that rightfully earned themselves an award, and the pass mark for both categories had to be an impressive 96% and above. 2025 marks the 13th year of the awards taking place, and its list is evidence that good food is going nowhere in the UK.

The top 10 restaurants show a wide range of locations, from down south by the coast of Devon right up to Glasgow in Scotland, but it’s safe to say the top contenders are mostly based in beloved seaside towns. Sticking out like a sore thumb, however, is the capital’s only entry in the top restaurants list, and that’s Toff’s of Muswell Hill, in London.

10 Best Restaurants

Catch, Giffnock, Glasgow

Eric’s Fish & Chips, Hunstanton, Norfolk

Fish City, Belfast

Harbour Lights, Falmouth, Cornwall

Pier Point Bar & Restaurant, Torquay, Devon

Squires Fish Restaurant, Braunton, Devon

The Elite, Tritton Road, Lincoln, Lincolnshire

The Magpie Cafe, Whitby, North Yorkshire

The Scallop Shell, Bath, Somerset

Toff’s of Muswell Hill, Muswell Hill, London

Included in the sizeable list are plenty of places in Yorkshire, with seven total entries in the exclusive list, including the likes of Lighthouse Fisheries of Flamborough and Two Gates Fisheries. Home to the likes of Southend-on-Sea and Clacton-on-Sea, the county of Essex also came out with a total of four fish and chip takeaways alone, making waves in the world of seafood.

Reece Head, competition organiser, said: “Another year has passed and, once again, these shops have shown resilience, adapting to today’s challenges with remarkable dedication. At a time when inflationary pressures are being felt, these businesses continue to stay positive and prioritise their customers, maintain exceptional standards, and find innovative ways to keep fish and chips affordable.

“Starting the year as award winners is a fantastic way for fish and chip shops to kick off 2025, setting the tone for a successful year ahead. Whether served in a restaurant, a takeaway, or from a mobile unit, the Fry Awards prove that quality fish and chips can be enjoyed anywhere.”

50 Best Takeaways (in alphabetical order)

• Ainsworth’s Fish & Chips, Caernarfon
• Angel Lane Chippie, Penrith, Cumbria
• Angell’s Fisheries, Newark, Nottinghamshire
• Batterfly Fish & Chips, Surbiton, Surrey
• Bredon Village Fish and Chip Shop, Bredon, Worcestershire
• Callaway’s Fish & Chips, Dorchester, Dorset
• Churchill’s Fish & Chips Langney, Eastbourne, East Sussex

• Farnham’s at Fontygary, Rhoose, Vale Of Glamorgan
• Fiddlers Elbow, Leintwardine, Herefordshire
• Fintans Fish & Chip Co. Llanishen, Cardiff
• Fishnchickn, Hutton, Brentwood, Essex
• French’s Fish Shop, Wells next the Sea, Norfolk
• Garioch Fish Bar, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire
• Greg & Lou’s, Redruth, Cornwall
• Henley’s of Wivenhoe, Colchester, Essex
• Hiks, Brynhyfryd, Swansea
• Hirds Family Fisheries, Halifax, West Yorkshire
• Howe & Co 55, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

• Joe’s Traditional Fish and Chips, Strabane , County Tyrone
• Kellaway’s Fish and Chips, Truro, Cornwall
• Kirbys of Horsforth, Horsforth , Leeds
• Kirbys of Meanwood, Meanwood, Leeds
• Lighthouse Fisheries Of Flamborough, Flamborough, East Yorkshire
• Malt and Anchor, Cirencester, Gloucestershire
• Moore’s Fish & Chips, Castle Douglas, Dumfries & Galloway

• Oysters Fish & Chips, Lightwater, Surrey
• Oysters Fish & Chips, Marlow Bottom, Buckinghamshire
• Pennington Plaice, Leigh, Greater Manchester
• Pier Point, Torquay, Devon
• Pisces, Fleetwood, Lancashire
• Portside Fish & Chips, South Elmsall, Leeds
• Portside Fish & Chips, Kirkstall Road, Leeds
• Quintiliani’s Fast Food, Hamilton, Larkhall, South Lanarkshire

• Redcloak Fish Bar , Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire
• Sea Blue Fisheries, Clowne, Derbyshire
• Sea Salt + Sole, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire
• Seafront Chippy, Hornsea, East Yorkshire
• Shappy Wheels, Shap, Cumbria
• Shaws Fish And Chips, Dodworth, Barnsley, South Yorkshire
• Squires, Braunton, Devon
• Sykes Fish and Chips, Manchester

• The Anchor, Bexley, South East London
• The Bearded Sailor, Pudsey, Leeds, West Yorkshire
• The Cafe Royal, Annan, Dumfries and Galloway
• The Chippie Van, Penrith, Cumbria
• The Codfather, Wakefield, West Yorkshire

• The Fish at Goose Green, Wigan, Greater Manchester
• The Fish Bank, Sherburn in Elmet, North Yorkshire
• The Friary, Carrickfergus, Co Antrim
• The Hook of Clacton, Clacton on Sea, Essex
• The Oyster Shell, Bath, Somerset
• The Village Fish & Chips, Petts Wood, Orpington, Kent
• Town Street Fryer, Marple Bridge, Stockport, Cheshire
• Two Gates Fisheries, Shafton, Barnsley, South Yorkshire