A Shropshire woman has been crowned the UK’s ultimate pie fan following a nationwide competition to mark Pukka Pies’ 55-year anniversary.

Katie Peal, who has a pie-tasting blog and judges at the British Pie Awards, began sampling pies across the country just three years ago, starting with a Pukka Chicken Balti at a football game.

“After my first Pukka Pie on a cold December evening, it was the start of a love affair,” said 36-year-old Peal, who lives in Telford.

“I’ve spent the last three years eating my way through all sorts of pies and pastries at football grounds, but it’s true what they say – a girl never forgets her first! I’m thrilled to be crowned a winner in the Pukka Pies competition and, at last, I feel like my love is no longer unrequited.”

Peal’s prize includes a year’s supply of Pukka Pies and an exclusive tour of the renowned Pukka bakery, as well as a tasting of the newest products in the Pukka range and a pie-making masterclass where she can cook up her dream recipe.