Paul Byrne took part in this year's World Pie-Eating Championship in Wigan but were his efforts enough to beat last year's winner Martin Appleton-Clare

Records and pastry toppings were smashed at the World Pie-Eating Championship today.

And the Daily Mirror was in the thick of the action with a late wild-card entry.

Held annually at a pub in the pie-eating capital of Wigan, Gtr Manchester, the contest is in its 23rd year.

The aim to swallow an entire 10cm pie as quickly as possible.

As the midday start time, “Pie-Noon”, approached, last year’s winner, Martin Appleton-Clare, eyed-up his opponents while sinking two pints of lager.

I sheepishly asked for tips but he politely declined.

“Sorry, mate, no can do. I’m here to win,” he said.

Suddenly, it was game on.

Pie maker Paul Bowen, 28, of Chorley, Lancs, looked on anxiously as 60 of his potato and meat creations were lined up on trestle tables.

The competitors listened intently as Harry’s Bar boss Tony Callaghan explained the rules: “I’ll count down, 3, 2, 1, then you start eating. The first one with an empty gob is the winner.”

Pies were soon being guzzled and after just 32 seconds, a whistle blew and Martin, 39, was again the winner for a record fourth time.

The world champ, of Wigan, said: “I’m over the moon. This is the fourth time I’ve won and this year feels a bit more important with it being a record.”

Vicky Lindley, 37, of Doncaster, was the fastest woman in 90 seconds. For the record, the Mirror finished last in two minutes, 32 seconds. But I believe a ­delicious pie should be savoured.

Source:
courtesy of METRO

by Paul Byrne

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