IT SOUNDS too good to be true but Hollands Pies is looking for 12 people to become official tasters of its products.

The Baxenden-based firm wants volunteers to sink their teeth into helping improve existing offerings and helping shape new recipes in the quest for pie perfection.

The idea is the brainchild of new managing director Neil Court-Johnston, who said he was determined to reawaken our passion for pies: Those hungry for the challenge are being urged to come forward.

From the applicants, the final 12 will be whittled down in a ‘Pie Idol’ contest.

Mr Court-Johnston said: “Wherever you are, the issue of what makes a good pie generates a lively debate and it’s fair to say that the North West is livelier than others.

“Right now, there’s a real desire for good quality, traditional British fayre and, as a company that makes over 80 million pies, puddings and pasties each year, we’ve decided to open the debate on the great British pie. It’s all about letting people know that we do listen.”

The new MD is looking to select a 12 person panel from across the North West to help Product Development Manager Maria Yuste ensure that the famous pies are of the highest quality.

Those selected will be invited to a series of specially arranged pie-tasting sessions to review every recipe and offer their opinions.

She said: “We already know that opinions and tastes vary across the region. In Manchester, for example, there’s a preference for meat and potato pies and puddings, whilst Liverpudlians lean heavily towards steak and kidney pies.

“In Preston there’s a particular desire for butter pies; In Wigan, many believe their town is the pie loving capital but I’m sure the people of Accrington, Burnley and Blackburn will have something to say about that.

“Clearly there is a lot of variation in taste and attitudes in the North West and we want our panel to reflect this.

“The message is simple, if you’re passionate about great-tasting, traditional, wholesome food, we’d love you to hear from you.”

Holland’s employs over 400 people and is part of the Northern Foods group.

Anyone wishing to be considered should contact Leanne.Holcroft@NorthernFoods.com.