A traditional bakery running for 80 years could be named the best in the UK.

Airdrie-based business Christie the Baker will represent the whole Lanarkshire area at this year’s National Bakery Awards in London.

If they win for their county, they could go on to be named National Bakery of the Year. 

The baker, which has shops in Airdrie, Coatbridge, Whitburn, and Linlithgow, is loved by customers for its authentic scotch pies, plain bread, morning rolls and cream rings.

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Andrew Chisholm took over the running of the business, which now employs around 70 people, from its previous owner, John Christie, in 2012.

He said: “We are pleased to have made it through to the national finals, especially as it’s not a competition that we entered by ourselves – it comes from the industry who look at the overall business.

“We are a community-focused business and appreciate the support we receive from our loyal customers.

“Our ingredients are locally sourced, and I believe this award recognises our commitment to providing high-quality fresh produce. We make four daily deliveries to each shop to ensure the produce is as fresh as possible.

“I’d like to thank all our staff for their important role in what we have achieved together.”

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Provost Kenneth Duffy visited Christie the Baker at their food processing unit in Airdrie to congratulate Andrew and his wife Carolyn on their success.

He said: “Christie the Baker is a real success story and forms such a key part of the communities they serve, and I’m delighted that they are being recognised nationally. I wish them every success in the finals in a few weeks.”

All county winners will be invited to the National Bakery Awards ceremony on September 25 in London, where they will be in the running to become regional winners, and of course, the chance to become the National Bakery of the Year 2024.