High school students were asked to form their own pie companies and develop a unique flavour of pie to be judged by a famous Lancashire baker.

As part of the school's enterprise week, year 10 students from Alder Grange School in Rossendale were given the 'Apprentice' style task and enlisted the help of staff from Accrington's Holland’s Pies who sat on the judging panel.

With three days to perfect their presentation, each team of students prepared a pitch for brand manager, Leanne Holcroft, and head of new product development at Holland’s Pies, Geoff Hughes, as well as the school's head and deputy head teachers.

From Thai inspired pies to mixed berry and cherry bakewell pies, the judges assessed the student’s creativity, presentation skills, website, packaging design, and marketing campaign – not to mention the flavour concept.

The winning flavour was created by team Berrylicious for their range of cookies and cream pies, which come complete with a mouth-watering cookie dough lid, aimed at children.

Brand manager at Holland’s Pies, Leanne Holcroft, said: “It was great to see just how passionate the students were when they were creating their pies.

"We’d like to say well done to all the students, who came up with some unique flavours, and congratulate Berrylicious on their win.

"I can’t say we’ve ever considered a cookie dough-topped pie at Holland’s before, but who knows – perhaps they are onto a winner?”

Head teacher, Joanna Griffiths, added: “As soon as we told the kids that Holland’s would be on the judges panel, it’s fair to say they stepped up their game.

"Thanks again to Leanne, Geoff, and everyone at Holland’s for being such good sports – it was a great day for all.”

Lancashire Telegraph: