Chieftain crowned in pudding race

Alan Elliot has already won titles for his steak pie and haggis

A butcher in south west Scotland has been crowned the nation's best black pudding producer.

It is a third major title for Northern Irishman Alan Elliot, 23, who now runs Dalbeattie Fine Foods in Dumfries and Galloway.

He has previously been crowned steak pie and haggis champion by the Scottish Federation of Meat Traders Association.

Mr Elliot said he had spent a long time perfecting his recipes and described them as a real "labour of love".

He picked up his previous two titles in 2007 to which he has now added the black pudding crown.

'Cult following'

His pudding was judged for appearance, texture, seasoning, taste and appeal.

Mr Elliot said he was shocked to have won a third award but "very pleased"

"I'm quite shocked to have won again, but very, very pleased," said Elliott, originally from Cookstown in County Tyrone.

"Developing my recipes is a labour of love and something I'm passionate about."

According to the competition organisers, the award could have an impact on visitor numbers to the Dumfries and Galloway town.

"Black pudding has a cult following in Britain," said Jim Fox, of contest sponsors Dalziel Ltd.

"I anticipate lots of potential visitors will be reaching for their road atlas."

SFMTA chief executive Douglas Scott said it was a great achievement for the young butcher.

"This competition is hotly contested and to be the top prize winners again is absolutely unbelievable," he said.

"Alan can take great pride from his achievements, they are certainly unique.

"Such success is not down to good luck, good meat products are a sign of a good butcher."

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