MEAT maestros from Netherton butchered the opposition in a competition to find the nation’s best banger.

Hinchliffe’s Farm Shop’s pork, mature Cheddar and chive sausage was crowned Food Service Sausage of the Year 2007 by the British Pig Executive.

It is the latest award for the highly-decorated pork product.

Simon Haigh, of Hinchliffe’s, said: “It was actually developed about three years ago for another competition, which we won.

“Then last year we also won the Champion of Champions sausage award with it.

“It is a straightforward, well-balanced sausage that can be enjoyed by everyone.”

Hinchliffe’s beat off competition from 14 other finalists, and nearly 270 entrants in all, to take the title.

To decide the winner each of the finalists tasted the others’ products and scored them on appearance, taste and texture.

The executive’s food service trade manager, Tony Goodger, said: “Our congratulations go to Hinchliffe’s and their success in what was a very tough competition.

“Their pork, mature Cheddar and chive sausage was well made and extremely tasty.

“To succeed from so many high-quality entries is a great achievement.”