Bristol-based baker The Cottage Loaf Bakery, in Congresbury, scooped the title of the Best West Country Baker at the recent Western Bakery Championships.

The event, which was held at Bako Western, and arranged by the Western Region of the National Association of Master Bakers (NAMB) also saw Martins Bakery of St Austell celebrate two successes by winning both the Open Bread Championship and also the Open Confectionery Championship

The West Country Specialities Championship was won again this year by Williams of Wool. Best Loaf in Show was awarded to Andrew Fudge from The Upper Crust Bakery, Taunton. The BAKO Managers Trophy for the best exhibit in the Innovative Section was won by The Cottage Loaf Bakery, Congresbury. Champion Trainee was Matthew Holman of West Country Bakery, Torpoint.

The event saw nearly £6,000 in prize money being spread over 40 competitors and all the judges’ comments were positive.

l For photos of the event, see www.bakeryinfo.co.uk