A TRIO of West Fife businesses have risen to the occasion and are in the running to become Scottish Baker of the Year.

Dunfermline-based Stephens Bakery and Cukie Patisserie are joined by Bayne's of Lochore on the shortlist for the prestigious title following an annual judging day earlier this month.

The event was held in the city and saw participants submit 12 of their star products each to be taste tested by 50 industry experts.

There were 630 offerings from 70 bakers and judges assessed appearance, the quality of the bake and taste.

Prizes were on offer for the best scones, loaves, savoury items, morning rolls, individual cakes and biscuits, as well as French and Danish style pastries and Free-from bread, biscuits and cakes.

Alasdair Smith, of competition organisers Scottish Bakers, said: "With 630 products entered, reaching the shortlist of this competition really is something to be very proud of.

"We really do wish all of our shortlisted entrants the best of luck when the prizes are presented in May."

Winners will be announced during a gala dinner at Hilton in Glasgow on Saturday, May 6.