Two thirds of the workforce at the world's biggest fish and chip shop went on an eight-hour strike over pay, terms and conditions.

Around 40 staff, including chefs, waiters and kitchen staff at Harry Ramsden's in Guiseley were supported by shouts from passing vehicles as they protested outside the restaurant holding placards stating: "We want a batter contract."

The strike came on Saturday - the restaurant's busiest day - but business carried on as usual as 20 or so management staff served hungry customers.

Barbara Foster, a waitress at the restaurant for 32 years, said: "This dispute has been on-going since March. The company wants us to change the terms we are used to, but we want to stay as we are."

Harry Ramsden's - established in 1928 by a Bradford fish-frier of the same name - was bought in November 1999 by the Compass Group UK (roadside division).

Tony Barrow, regional industrial organiser for the Transport and General Workers Union (TGWU) said: "The company wants more and more flexi-time but doesn't want to pay for it or the fact that staff are expected to work unsocial hours. They are also being expected to work overtime without the correct rates of pay.

"The company will not negotiate with unions. Staff are frustrated at not being able to get anything resolved. The company has now spoken to employees about involving the Arbitration and Conciliation Advisory Service (ACAS), but that was only a day ago. Why didn't they get them involved two months ago?

"I don't think the employers thought staff would actually strike - this is the first time in the company's history there has been a strike."

He said he now hoped employers and staff would be able to negotiate a way of resolving the dispute, and they also hoped to meet ACAS representatives this week.

"If they don't agree to negotiate, then there will be another strike," said Mr Barrow. "Good industrial relations are about talking and listening to the employees, not dictatorial management."

Management was unavailable for comment.