Duo from G Shearer & Son Butchers in Holbeach set to compete at Scottish Craft Butchers Trade Fair in Perth

Two Holbeach butchers are preparing to battle it out for top honours at the Scottish Butcher Wars next month.

Ben Tindale, manager at G Shearer & Son Butchers, in Dam Gate, and apprentice Ethan Hubbard are both taking part in the competition being held at the Scottish Craft Butchers Trade Fair in Perth, on Saturday, May 13 and Sunday, May 14.

They will take on butchers from around the country and further afield in singles and pairs events – when for the latter they’ll work together to transform a half pork saddle and half a Scotch lamb into a stunning display in just 45 minutes.

Once their time is up they will be judged on the appearance of their finished display as well as their technique speed, creativity, food hygiene and health and safety.

Ben, who is no stranger to competitions, having previously represented Team GB in the World Butcher’s Challenge 2022, said they were both looking forward to the battle.

“There’s two parts to the event, and we’ll be competing together as a pair for the second part,” he added. “For this one, we know exactly what we’ll be doing which is good as it means there are no surprises, and we can rehearse and practice beforehand.

“One requirement of the pairs event is that one us has to be under 21, so it’s nice to be able to encourage the next generation into that side of the industry, as well as being able to promote the industry as a whole. We’re really looking forward to it.”