(Image: ADAM KENNEDY/TRIPADVISOR)
A surprise visit from Sam Fender had customers and fans talking after the singer dropped into one of Tynemouth's best-loved chip shops.
Sam Fender has become one of North Shields' most recognisable faces since his rise to fame, and regularly returns to his North East hometown, visiting local restaurants and businesses.
The Mercury Prize-winning musician was spotted in Marshalls Fish Shop in Tynemouth on Saturday evening, with staff quick to take a picture with Fender.
In a post shared on the chip shop's social media, Marshalls Fish Shop said: "The lovely Sam Fender popped in last night for our fresh fish and chips. What a lovely man."
Fans flocked to the comments to praise Fender for supporting local businesses, and to celebrate their local chippy being visited by the star.
One commenter wrote: "Supporting local business Sam, well done I hope you enjoyed," with another adding:
"Guy is already a Geordie Legend."
Marshalls is popular among locals for its large portions, with many customers considering them the "best fish and chips in Tynemouth."
The North Shields native was described as "lovely" by staff. (Image: ADAM KENNEDY/TRIPADVISOR)
The chip shop's stellar reputation has also attracted those further afield, with online reviews sharing they had travelled from County Durham and beyond to try the local business. One visitor wrote:
"Fabulous big portions of very tasty fish and chips.
Dog friendly inside which is a bonus. Staff so very friendly.
Thank you for making our visit from Durham very enjoyable."
The visit adds to Fender's links with businesses in his home region. The BRIT award-winner has said his North Shields upbringing influences his song writing and identity as an artist, with his number one single Rein Me In referencing local pub The Gunner.
Fender has previously been spotted at Lewis's Fish Restaurant in Seahouses, The Uncommon in North Shields, and used his former workplace, Low Lights Tavern, to film a video for he Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon in 2019.
The North Shields musician has seemingly teased a UK tour this weekend (October 17), with SF27 branding appearing on his website and social media.
The design was also spotted in St James' Park this weekend, but no official announcements have been made.