Golden glory for maker of marmalade

Lynne Allan, who makes jams and marmalades under the label of Lady Waterford Preserves at The Old Dairy Concept Store in Ford, is one of only two double gold winners in the artisan section at the World’s Original Marmalade Awards which took place at Dalemain Mansion, near Penrith, at the weekend.

This year, the competition attracted some 2,000 professional and amateur marmalade makers from all over the world.

In addition to the double gold, Lynne also won a bronze for her orange marmalade with chips.

“I can’t tell you how amazed and thrilled I am to win this highly-coveted award,” she said.

“Up until now we’ve been selling our jams and marmalades from The Old Dairy Concept Store, but the double gold has changed all that.

“For example, we have an immediate order from Fortnum & Mason, who sponsor the event, for 250 jars with the prospect of more to come as well as many other specialist shops keen to have our preserves.”

The double gold winners are also invited to a Fortnum & Mason boardroom breakfast to be held at the famous London store where chefs will pair the marmalades with interesting dishes.

Judging at the Festival took place with the help of the Women’s Institute and the likes of food historian Ivan Day, Guardian journalist Dan Lepard and Shirley Spear, from the Michelin-starred Three Chimneys.

Head buyers from Selfridges and Fortnum & Mason also took part.

Jane Hasell-McCosh, the founder of the competition which is now in its 11th year, said: “The quality of the marmalades judged was at its very highest.

“Double gold winners really are special marmalade makers. Not to put too fine a point on it; they are the best in the world.”