INVERCLYDE bakery Aulds is hoping to make a world champion out of its mouth-watering Scotch pie.

They believe their top selling meat feast has all the ingredients to make it to the upper crust – and it is now on the shortlist for the upcoming 19th Scotch Pie World Championship title.

Their recipe for success is a firm favourite with the public – and bosses hope it will now whet the appetite of the judges.

The professionals will be looking to bite into a crispy crust on the outside, through to a stand-out tasty filling on the inside – and not a soggy bottom in sight.

Supervisor Jennifer Small and bakery foreman Sam McVicar were talking tactics as their produce prepares to take its taste test against the world’s finest.

Jennifer, an Auld’s supervisor, said: “It is very exciting for us. Our Auld’s special pie is definitely one of the favourites with everyone here.

“I also love our chicken curry pie as well, but it would be great for Inverclyde if we could say we’ve produced a world champion.”

Aulds managing Director Alan Marr says the business is covering all bases at the upcoming contest.

He said: “We have entered eight categories this year. We are very proud of our produce and the fact we are going for so many honours shows the depth and variety of our menu.”

Aulds will have a place at the top table when  50 food industry professionals put the pies to the ultimate test.

But the Inverclyde firm will face some tough competition, with over 80 butchers and bakers from across the world entering 450 different varieties of the Scotch pie for consideration.

Head judge Ian Nelson said: “The competition has already been fierce, so Aulds can be proud to have come this far.”

President of the Scottish Bakers Craig McPhie added: “The World Championship Scotch Pie Awards is the only competition of its kind recognising excellence in the preparation of a perfect pie.”

The winner will be announced at a prestigious lunch on January 9 at the Westerwood Hotel in Cumbernauld.