MARMALADE connoisseurs and amateur makers are being invited to take part in an international competition taking place in March.

Linnels Farm in Hexham is Northumberland’s only drop off point for the World’s Original Marmalade Awards, which takes place as part of the Marmalade Festival held at Dalemain House and Garden, Penrith, on Saturday, March 14.

Now in its 15th year, the awards are open to all first-timers or seasoned artisan producers with 15 categories to choose from. The winner’s marmalade recipe will be produced commercially by marmalade makers, Thursday Cottage, and sold in Fortnum and Mason, with a portion of proceeds going to the winner’s chosen charity.

Linnels Farm runs regular cookery, gardening and craft workshops including a ‘Marvellous Marmalade’ making workshop on February 5.

Karen Phillips, owner of Linnels said: “We have been making marmalade commercially for 10 years, selling both online and in the Corbridge Larder, but our real love is inspiring people to make their own marmalade.”

Entries should be dropped off at Linnels Farm, Hexham, Northumberland, NE46 1TS between Monday to Saturday, 9am-3pm before February 7. The £10 fees are being donated to Carlisle-based Hospice at Home.