A SCOTS pie maker has been crowned the best in the UK at a prestigious ceremony.
Cairn Robbie, who works at Arbroath-based WEECOOK, was named British Young Pie Maker of the Year at the British Pie Awards in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire on March 7.
He impressed judges with his “exceptional skill and dedication”[/caption]
The lad, who initially joined the team to do washing up as a summer job when he was 16, impressed bosses so much they kept him on.
19-year-old Cairn, from Carnoustie, impressed judges with his “exceptional skill, dedication, and banter he brings to the kitchen”.
Reflecting on his win, Cairn said: “It’s amazing to see Scottish pies getting the recognition they deserve.
“I’m proud to show that young people in Scotland can make a real impact in the food industry.”
He was also delighted to see fellow Scottish business and pie makers, Boghall Butchers of Bathgate, take home the Supreme Champion Pie of Pies title with their innovative Kebab Pie.
WEECOOK also claimed multiple medals and two best-in-class titles.
Their MacChook Pie – a combination of haggis, chicken, and bacon – was named Best Hot Savoury Pie in Britain.
The pie, which is a favourite with customers, previously won the title of Best Speciality Savoury Pie in Scotland at the Scottish Bakers Scotch Pie Awards.
In addition, WEECOOK emerged as Class Champions in the Chicken and Ham category with their much-loved Chicken and Bacon Pie.
WEECOOK chef-owner Hayley Wilke said: “Cairn’s success is a huge honour for us. His dedication and talent are a credit to our team and the Scottish food industry.
“He is a great role model for young people thinking about working in food and hospitality. We have amazing pie makers here in Scotland!
“We’re incredibly proud to fly the flag for Arbroath, Angus and Scottish produce.”
Matthew O’Callaghan, Chairman of the Melton Pork Pie Association and host of the British Pie Awards, said: “The pie is Britain’s most important contribution to world food heritage.
“The British eat over £1billion of pies every year, hot-cold, sweet-savoury and now gluten free, vegan, fusion etc.
“These awards celebrate the skills and ingenuity of all those involved in pie-making, from traditional recipes to more exotic creations.
“It’s been wonderful to be immersed in the collected passion for pies – traditional British fare, often showcased with a modern twist.”
