Calling pie makers across the UK – the 2018 British Pie Awards are now open for entry. The world-famous Awards are to be held on Wednesday 7th March 2018 in the Leicestershire town and pork pie capital, Melton Mowbray. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the hotly contested competition, which last year saw a staggering 897 pies entered from over 150 talented bakers, butchers and chefs.
The Awards, held during British Pie Week (5th-11th March 2018), celebrate our nation’s love of pies – one of the icons of British cuisine. Hot or cold, sweet or savoury, the British eat millions of them every year.
There are only a few simple rules that must be adhered to: All pies must consist of a filling totally encased in pastry and baked. Entrants can apply for any of the 21 pre-assigned classes. All entries, except the annual themed class (see below), must be commercially available in the UK.
Matthew O’Callaghan, Chairman of the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie Association, hosts of the British Pie Awards said: “We’re looking forward to celebrating our 10th anniversary this year with professional pie makers from across the country.
“We have judged well over 7,000 pies since the awards were first founded in 2009. During that time the quality and range of pies submitted has increased significantly, a tribute to the craft and skills of the British Pie Maker.
“The calibre and variety of entries last year was truly outstanding and showcased the creativity and innovation that can go into reinventing a classic staple. We can’t wait to try what this year’s entrants have to offer!”
Celebrating the pies that fuel our public services
Each year the awards have a special themed class – Class 21 – the only category in which the pies do not have to be commercially available to be entered. For the 2018 Awards, Class 21 will celebrate pies produced in the public sector for vital services including schools, hospitals and the armed forces.
Given that they are not sold commercially these pies, whilst in the running to win their class, are not eligible for consideration as Supreme Champion.
Although judged to the same standards, and under the same rules as other classes, the pie makers in this category have more freedom to choose fillings, pastry type and presentation. Entrants can celebrate the pies that they are particularly proud to serve in the public sector, but are not available to the general public.
How to get involved
Entry to the Awards is now open and will run until 5pm on Friday 16th February 2018. It’s open to anyone who sells pies commercially in the UK, with a special rate for companies with fewer than five pie makers. Pie makers are able to enter the awards by filling out an online entry form on the website, where there is also a full list of this year’s classes: click here