A popular pasty bakery in Greater Manchester has had two pies win awards this week.

HM Pasties, originally based in Bolton, won gold for two pies at the National Pie Awards last week.

The pasty business took top marks in the vegan category for its chickpea curry pasty at the awards held at Melton Mowbray’s 12th Century St Mary’s Church.

HM Pasties was also awarded silver for its cheese and onion pie and two bronzes for its traditional pasty and creamy vegan leek and mushroom pies.

Taking to social media, the business said: “This is such wonderful news for everyone in the bakery team.

“Four of our products to be recognised in this way, judged by experts, is such a validation of the work of the whole team.

“We couldn’t be prouder and thank everyone who has wished us well, bought our products and supported our journey so far.”

The business often employs those who have been in trouble with the law in order to give them a new start in life.

HM Pasties was opened by Lee Wakeham in Bolton, after he was a prisoner himself.

The Bolton News:

This is not the first time the business has won an award as last year, HM Pasties won an award for its chickpea curry pasty at the British Pie Awards.

Another social media post read: “We are delighted to say that a couple of our pies have won gold awards this week.

“We are so very proud of our team again and we will be sharing more details about the pies very soon.”

Recently, the business took the difficult decision to shut the ‘hatch’ in Bolton and can now be found at artisan markets.

Lee said: “We have a wholesale business which has really taken off so we are focusing on that, but it’s also the area.

The Bolton News:

“It’s not a very nice place for people to come and visit because there’s drugs and fly tipping, so we decided to close it down.

“It’s been incredible to be here, and John Hunt have supported us a lot and really looked after us during Covid as well.”

The business has seen its wholesale and private catering side of the business grow.