THE 'pie's the limit' for a Largs butcher as he 'raised the steaks' to win recognition at a prestigious national competition.

Long-established A D Paton Butchers, whose shop is at Aitken Street, has took home a coveted trophy at the 2019 Scottish Craft Butchers Awards for their traditional steak pie.

The heats were held at Forth Valley College with more than 280 butchers' wares from across the country were tested for appearance, flavour, filling and appeal.

A delighted Scott revealed the secret of the perfect pie when he spoke to the News this week.

He said: "The key to our success is that we use only the best quality beef and the slow cooking.

"We like to think that it's our produce that sets us apart.

"The steak pie is part of the staple diet of Scotland and we are chuffed to bits to be recognised with this award."

Scott saus painstaking preparation goes into every aspect of their now award-winning pies.

He added: "We do it all up in a nice puff pastry, cook it overnight and fire them every day so the pies are as fresh as possible.

"It makes sure the ingredients are the very best they can be."

Scott also revealed the success of the pie has seen them in demand all over the town.

He added: "We make a smaller version for Largs Thistle, which we call the 'Theesel pie'. With a lot of home games coming up supporters can take an opportunity to have a try and see what they think."

The panel of judges included experts, food writers and interested consumers and the event is organised by the Scottish Federation of Meat Traders in conjunction with John Scott Meat Ltd and William Sword Ltd.

Jason Ward, of John Scott Meat, sponsors of the Steak Pie Evaluation said: “I must say, I was blown away by the standard of pies and Paton's was a superb entry.

"To win here takes some doing as the awards are an exceptional showcase of the quality products available at your local Scottish Craft Butcher .’

David Mooney, direct sales manager of sponsor William Sword, added: "To receive an award is a fantastic achievement. Winners like Scott represent the upper crust of the Scottish meat industry."

Scott, centre, is pictured receiving his firm's award the sponsors.