Irvines Bakers and Confectioners of Beith has secured a spot on the shortlist at the prestigious Scottish Baker of the Year Awards.

This years’ crop of entries included the ‘best bakes’ from some 60 bakers spanning the country, all aiming for the ultimate prize of being crowned Scottish Baker of the Year.

With bakers each asked to put forward up to 12 of their star products to be taste tested by 50 industry experts, 580 products were delivered for the judges to assess for appearance, the quality of the bake and taste.

There are accolades on offer for the best scones, loaves, savoury items, morning rolls, individual cakes and biscuits as well as French and Danish style pastries and 'free-from' bread, biscuits and cakes.

But the ultimate prize of course, is to be crowned Scottish Baker of the Year.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Scottish Baker of the Year 2024

Lesley Cameron, chief executive of Scottish Bakers, which organises the competition, said “With nearly 600 products entered, reaching the shortlist of this competition really is something to be very proud of.

"Every day we work hard to give Scottish bakers the chance to shine and showcase their innovation and skills and this competition is a vital part of that. So we really do wish all of our shortlisted entrants the best of luck when the prizes are presented in May.”

The winners will be announced at a glittering gala dinner at the Hilton in Glasgow on Saturday May 11