THE hunt for Britain's supreme black pudding maker took place in Bolton yesterday ... but the future of the contest hangs in the balance.

Master makers of the Northern delicacy converged on the town for the annual contest which has run since 1970.

But organisers were disappointed with the number of entries - just 55 instead of 120 in its hey day.

And Farnworth butcher Jack Morris blamed rival areas for stealing Lancashire's tradition.

He said the Bolton contest, the only one of its kind in Britain until now, was facing stiff competition from copy-cat contests in Yorkshire and Stafford.

"For the first time we believe other towns are staging the same contest.

"They have stolen our thunder. We are going to have to think hard about the contest next year. If we don't get a better interest the contest could fold." Despite the turn-out, judges enjoyed an afternoon of diverse tastes at The Pack Horse, Bradshawgate.

The first prize Amasal Shield winner was Wysner Meats of Northern Ireland and the best student, Andy Maiden from Salford College.

This year's nominated celebrity, Ken Dodd will be sent the winning sample, described by judges, as 'hot and spicy'.

Jack said: "Over the years we've sent our winning entry to lots of celebrities including Les Dawson and Russell Harty."

And dispelling fears over the BSE crisis, Jack added: "Many people were worried about mad cow disease but that is nonsense if you use a reputable butcher.

"Black puddings are almost a vegetarian food. The only ingredients are pigs blood and pork fat - the rest is cereals.

"More and more young people who like spicy foods are turning to black puddings. It is definitely a food of the future."

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