PRODUCERS from across the borough landed recognition at the Great Hampshire Sausage and Pie Competition.

Having been postponed earlier in the month due to the snow, local butchers and producers finally gathered at Rownhams House and Gardens on Thursday last week for the results

of the event organised by Hampshire Fare.

This year’s competition attracted 261 entries from 46 butchers across 12 categories which were all judged by a panel of national judges.

While no businesses based in and around Basingstoke landed a 'champion' award, many were given gold, silver and bronze prizes for the quality of their produce.

Bere Mill Butchery, in Whitchurch, picked up a silver prize; A Basing Bakes, based in Magnus Drive, Basingstoke, landed two silvers; Manydown Farm Shop earned one each of gold, silver and bronze; while Newlyns Farm Shop, in North Warnborough, won seven golds and five silvers.

Judging took place in February at Eastleigh College with the assistance of staff and students from the college’s hospitality and catering department.

Tracy Nash, commercial manager of Hampshire Fare, said: “The judges were extremely positive about the quality of this year’s entries. Many of the judges have been involved in this annual competition for several years and were able to notice a real improvement in the standard of the products entered. Our butchers and producers did Hampshire proud.”

The awards were hosted by BBC South business correspondent, Alastair Fee.