The British Pie Awards are seeking entries for this year’s competition.

Marking its 10th anniversary, the awards celebrate the nation’s love of pies and are held on the 7 March 2018, in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, as part of British Pie Week (5-11 March).

Entry to the awards will run until 5pm on 16 February and is open to anyone who sells pies commercially in the UK. Those interested should enter the awards by filling out an online form on the British Pie Awards website.

All pies must consist of a filling that is totally encased in pastry and baked. Entrants can apply for any of the 21 classes including sports pie and free-from pie.

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 services including schools, hospitals and the armed forces.

Last year saw 897 pies entered by more than 150 bakers, butchers and chefs.

“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,” said the chairman of the Melton Mowbray Pie Association Matthew O’Callaghan.

“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.”