Bakeries from Cumbria, Essex and Gloucestershire are among those shortlisted for Baker of the Year at the 2019 Farm Shop & Deli Awards.

The four-strong shortlist comprises: Bondgate Bakery in Otley, West Yorkshire; Hobbs House Bakery in Tetbury, Gloucestershire; Mayfield Farm Bakery in Harlow, Essex; and Lovingly Artisan in Kendal, Cumbria.

They are among 50 businesses competing across 12 categories, including Newcomer of the Year and Online Business of the Year, with the winners vying for the title of Farm Shop & Deli Retailer of the Year. The winners will be announced at 3:30pm on Monday 8 April at the Birmingham NEC as part of the Farm Shop & Deli Show which runs from 8-10 April 2019.

Also taking place at the show is Britain’s Best Loaf, organised by British Baker. The 2019 competition, sponsored by spelt supplier Craggs & Co, will see bakers enter their loaves across five categories:

  • Innovation
  • White
  • Wholegrain
  • Sourdough
  • Gluten Free

The winning loaf from each category will be judged to determine the ultimate winner of the title Britain’s Best Loaf. Past winners have said the accolade has helped boost sales and gain new listings, as well as generate both local and national media coverage.

The deadline for entries is 11 March and there is an entry fee of £20+VAT for each product.