The inaugural Best Pork Pie in Town competition, on the annual fun day on the Headland, was won by Morrells, in York Road, Hartlepool.
What started as a bit of fun during the Carnival last year, has now grown into a full‑blown hunt for Teesside’s ultimate pork pie.
The contest is being organised by Jo Banks of Facebook group Hartlepool Chat.
She said: “The competition proved so popular that this year it’s being expanded to include all of Teesside, and will be judged by blind‑tasting volunteers from the area.”
Jo added that they’re keen to see entries from both long‑established butchers and newer bakers who fancy winning the title.
Judging is set to take place on Saturday, August 8, in the Squircle, Middlegate, on Hartlepool Headland, opposite the Borough Hall.
Jo said anyone who would like to enter a pie, or simply volunteer to help judge the best Teesside has to offer, can drop the page a private message to get involved.
Last year, Richard and Jackie Morrell from the 154-year-old shop were absolutely thrilled to win the contest and receive the commemorative silver plate.
The Headland Carnival starts this Thursday, 30 July with the opening of the fun fair on the Town Moor and once again includes all the well-loved competitions, concluding with the ever-popular Carnival Parade Day on Saturday, 8 August.
The Carnival Committee has thanked everyone involved for their hard work towards this year’s event and is calling upon the community to help secure its future.
A Committee spokesperson said: “When people come to the carnival, they see a fantastic weekend of fun, colour and entertainment, but what they don’t always see is the dedication of the small team of volunteers who work behind the scenes all year to make it happen. We simply couldn’t do it without the incredible support of our local businesses, community organisations and everyone who gives their time, prizes or sponsorship.”
They added: “As we celebrate our 103rd carnival, we’d love more people and businesses to get involved. Every donation, every sponsorship and every volunteer makes a difference. Together, we’re not just organising an event; we’re protecting a tradition that has been at the heart of the Headland for over a century and creating memories for the next generation.”
Anyone who believes they can offer any support should please get in touch on FB or by email:
