Organisers of the event, The Melton Mowbray Pork Pie Association, have provisionally set a limit for entries at 1,000 pies due to the logistics of tasting that many pies in one day. The event will take place in St. Mary’s Church, Melton Mowbray on Wednesday 30th April 2014
Pies are entered in 19 different categories this year and judged independently by pie experts, celebrity chefs and acclaimed food writers.
Matthew O’Callaghan, chairman of the MMPPA said: “The British Pie Awards allows pie makers of all sizes from all parts of the industry to demonstrate the quality of their produce. It is a fantastic celebration of British tradition and a great way to protect our pie heritage.”
This year the Speciality Pie class has been named “A pie fit for a hero” and introduced by the organisers in recognition of the quality of food prepared by chefs working in the British Armed Forces and associated catering establishments who they are also encouraging to enter this category alone this year.
O’Callaghan explained: “Since it is the 100th commemorative year of WW1 we felt it an appropriate touch to introduce a category that could acknowledge the caterers who support our armed forces and associated personnel. We are hoping the category attracts some new entrants and really provide us with an insight into their skills as well as some food for thought.”
Sally Lewis of The Pie Kitchen won the accolade of Supreme Pie Champion in 2013. Since winning the award she has seen her pie sales double. She said: “We have been really astounded at the impact winning this award has made to our business. Not only do more people recognise our brand they are more inclined to try our pies when they see we have achieved this Award. I would really encourage everyone in the industry to get involved. It is a great way to be recognised as well as a lot of fun.”
Full details of all of this year’s classes and the entry form are available on line at www.britishpieawards.co.uk or by contacting Emma Sparks via email emma.sparks@mmppa.co.uk.