Pie contest goes global

Wigan's pie-makers face global competition after tenders were invited from potential official suppliers from around the world for the annual World Pie Eating Championships.

The contest, taking place in Harry's Bar, Wigan on December 13, has tradtionally used local pies. Following controversy last year which saw pies from McManus's Bakery in nearby Farnworth brought in, the organisers have been advised that suppliers from outside the UK must be given the chance to send in the pies.

"We've been told that we cannot restrict pie selection to Wigan now that we're established as an EU member," said Tony Callaghan, owner of Harry's Bar.

"It's bad enough that the World Vegetarian Pie Eating Championship Official Pie has come from Altrincham - not just a different town, but a different county full of posh people - but to be advised by lawyers that we have to accept pie tenders from anywhere in Europe is an outrage.

"I mean, what if the selection committee get all giddy and choose a French pie with all them funny herbs in it?

"Nevertheless, once again, we need world-class hand-made pies, consistent in size and texture, that are easily bitten, chewed and digested while not lying so heavily on the stomach that it prevents a fall-off in competitive eating standards later in the competition."

Official Pie supply applicants need to send their details to officialpie@hotmail.co.uk. "These pies have to be top quality: we need to avoid a swallow-stall and spongification which may lead to premature digestive over-capacity," said Tony.