Family bakery on a roll with winning loaf

Tom Francis and Marilla McMillan, of family-owned T A Francis and Sons, were delighted to win national gold for their chia bread at the two-day event last weekend.
And the luscious loaf, which was also declared the best in the region, continues the winning trend for the High Street business – which bagged a national bronze and regional gold for its G I loaf and a regional gold for its fruit scone at last year’s awards.
Tom said: “We were very surprised and pleased to win the regional and national awards as there were over 600 products submitted.
“It’s great recognition for small bakers and we’re delighted to have one of the best loaves in the country.
“Scottish Bakers spent a lot of money on these awards and we are very grateful as they encourage people to come in and try our different products.”
The siblings, who also have a bakery on Friars Vennel in Dumfries, enjoyed the packed schedule at the awards ceremony – which included a baking masterclass by ITV’s Britain’s Best Bakery judge Mich Turner.
And as well as receiving awards for their bread, which was baked by David Grzechowiak, there was also an exhibition, conference and performance from Bay City Roller Les McKeown.
Meanwhile, Gretna Bakery also enjoyed a string of successes – receiving a national bronze and best in region for their cheese scone, regional silver for its bread and regional gold for its white bread.
And R Little Bakers in Moffat were delighted to win the best potato scone in Scotland.