The Foodservice Pork Product of the Year Competition is being run by the British Pig Executive (BPEX) and has already attracted more than 80 entries.

This is the first time such a contest has been held for the foodservice sector and there are six different categories.

BPEX Foodservice Development Manager Richard Fagan said: "This is its first year and we have been overwhelmed by the interest shown by food manufacturers.

"It's amazing to see how many new pork products there are out there. I'm really looking forward to tasting them."

The aim of the competition is to encourage the growth of quality, profitable and professionally manufactured pork products into the foodservice industry.

Richard said: "We know pork can offer a tremendous variety of options for the caterer and their menus. We hope the competition will stimulate interest by foodservice operators in using more of the best on their menus."

The final of the competition will be held at the Butchers Hall in London on Tuesday 27th February.

The six categories are: fresh pork cut; pork ready meal; best cold eating product; pork and pastry; best cured product and best innovative pork product.