BREADS by an artisan baker based in the Lake District have been shortlisted for prestigious honours.

Lovingly Artisan is up for honours at the 2020 Baking Industry Awards (BIA), with the winners set to be announced at a virtual awards ceremony at the beginning of next year.

The company's Danish rugbrød has been shortlisted in the 'bakery innovation award' category, while its Mrs Kirkham's cheese and Marmite sourdough is a contender in the 'speciality bread product of the year' category.

The latter bread came about as result of a unique collaboration between cheese-maker Graham Kirkham and Aidan Monks, of Lovingly Artisan.

It was born out of their shared interest, knowledge and passion for fermented foods and their interest in the role these foods play in our overall health and wellbeing.

Mr Monks said: "It’s a real honour to be shortlisted alongside the other finalists in this year’s BIAs.

"The annual BIA awards are the biggest event in the baking industry calendar and provide a magnificent stage to recognise the skills and achievements of the whole industry, and it’s fabulous that we have been shortlisted in two award categories.

"This year, more than ever, it’s really important for the industry to come together and celebrate everything that has been achieved despite the situation in which we all find ourselves.

"Despite everything, the pandemic has added impetus to Lovingly Artisan’s desire to place quality healthy breads using only the finest ingredients at the heart of the family table once more.’’