Oliver's Battery WI members triumph at international marmalade contest

Janet Arnold, Demelsa Healey, Chris Stride and Mo Bloomfield, from Oliver’s Battery, said they are not averse to some friendly rivalry in either local or international competitions, especially when it comes to Paddington's favourite preserve.

The Dalemain 2023 International Marmalade Competition aims to champion marmalade makers from around the world and stages its annual contest in Cumbria.

The awards culminate with competitors receiving the results in an envelope with judging notes and certificates.

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Tensions rose for the Oliver’s Battery four as Mo heard that she’d won gold in the artisan competition for her MoMo’s preserve and Chris and Janet received their silver certificates while Demelsa was left with nothing.

Demelsa said: “When I heard both Chris and Janet had received their results, I did not have high hopes for any success.

“But when a neighbour delivered a misdirected envelope I was very pleased with the contents. I still can't quite believe I got full marks (20/20) and gold for my Seville Full Fruit entry.”

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The Oliver’s Battery WI members are thankful to Rathbones, one of the main competition sponsors, for the company’s help in transporting entries to Cumbria back in February.

The Dalemain competition is open to all abilities and ages with categories to suit. This year's programme received more than 3,000 entries. 

Every jar is tasted and all entrants are posted tasting notes based on the appearance, taste, flavour, set and presentation of their jar of amber preserve. Entry fees are donated to local hospices.

For more information go to dalemain.com/about-the-festival.