More than 90 judges made their way to Westminster Cathedral Hall yesterday (21 September) for the World Bread Awards judging day.

There were 600 loaves waiting to be assessed and judges, chaired by Stephen Hallam, managing director of Melton Mowbray-based Dickinson & Morris, included bakers, ex-Bake Off contestants and industry experts, who smelled, squeezed and tasted breads ranging from sourdough and flatbreads to fruit bread. In total there were 16 categories, including one People’s Choice category, which was voted for online.

Entries in this year’s sourdough category were up 10%, while the Real Bread Campaign category, sponsored by Shipton Mill was also up by 30%.

Winners will be announced on Tuesday 11 October 2016.