A NORTH-EAST baker has scooped silver in the World Bread Awards.

The Moody Bakers, based in Barnard Castle, County Durham won silver for their traditional white loaf at a glittering award ceremony in London.

The artisan bakery was founded by Dave Baker and Sarah Sawyer in 2010. The pair have since won six national awards for their breads and pies.

Mr Baker said: “This is the first time one of our loaves has received national recognition.

“It’s a credit to all at The Moody Bakers, but especially to our bread team who work really hard to bring very special breads to the people of Teesdale and beyond.

"We are very proud to have our roots firmly planted in the North-East and very proud of bringing this award home to Teesdale.”

The bakers said they have seen bread sales rise over the last four years and believe it is down to people wanting something more wholesome and interesting than what is available in supermarkets.

Mr Baker added: “We only use the best flours we can source, along with other quality natural ingredients.

“One of our flours, Gilchester’s Organics, is grown and milled just over the border in Northumberland, meaning we are also cutting down our food miles.”

The Moody Bakers plan to enter more loaves next year and will continue to attend farmer’s markets in the surrounding area.