WATERFIELDS bakers just get better and better.

Leigh's Manchester Road bakery has this week collected two industry 'oscars' at a top award ceremony in London.

Company managing director John Waterfield was crowned Britain's Baker of the Year and confectionery manager Peter Fort is Britain's top savoury snack baker.

And it's the first time in the Bakery Industry Awards' history that one business has lifted more than one title.

A delighted Richard Waterfield, speaking after the awards ceremony at London's Grosvenor House Hotel, said: "We are absolutely delighted. We have always known our customers recognise how good our produce is. It's just great the trade has now recognised it as well.

"To have two winners out of four finalists is superb. We shall really make a song and dance about this now.

"John was up against 140 entrants and Peter 70."

Both John and Peter beat off competition from all over the UK to receive a Golden Wheatsheaf Trophy and £500 prize each. It was Peter's first competition in 19 years with the company.

Two other employees reached the contest final: Wendy Wordsworth in the Celebration Cake Confectioner of the Year category and Tony Robinson in the Independent Bread Business of the Year group.

The company has shops in St Helens, Warrington and Liverpool as well as the Metro area.

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