Local bakers hoping to taste success in national competition

A string of Perth and Kinross favourites have made it to the shortlist in the Scottish Baker of the Year competition.

Sweet treats, pies, customer service and quality cafes have all combined to ensure the region has a good chance of success in the sixth annual awards.

More than 11,000 customers from across Scotland voted for their favourite bakery products across six categories.

In all, 115 bakeries were nominated and more than 850 of the most popular products in the land were delivered for scrutiny by a panel of 56 expert and independent judges.

The finalists include Aberfeldy’s Breadalbane Bakery & Tea Room, Goodfellow & Steven, Tower Bakery, Murray’s Bakers of Perth, and Mr C’s Handcrafted Pies, based at Jamesfield Farm in Abernethy.

It is yet more recognition for Murray’s, who in 2015 were named World Scotch Pie Champion.

Each of the nominees must now wait until May 6 to learn whether they have secured a coveted top award or special recognition for their products.

Gold, silver and bronze awards will be presented for the best scones, loaves, savouries, rolls, cakes and biscuits.

Attention will then shift to businesses themselves and the craft baker, retail craft baker and wholesale baker and bakery café of the year titles.

Finally, the Scottish Baker of the Year 2017-18 winner will be announced.

“This competition is based on real votes from real customers and every one has counted in drawing up the list of products invited through to professional judging,” said chief executive Alan Clarke.