Gluten-free bakers will be rising to the challenge in a new section of the World Pasty Championships at the Eden Project on March 4.

For the first time amateur pasty-makers can enter a gluten-free category in the global competition supported by the Cornish Pasty Association.

It is thought that this is the first gluten-free pasty baking competition of its kind.

Other categories of the World Pasty Championships include professional, company, amateur and junior for both traditional Cornish and non-Cornish pasties.

The gluten-free category has been sponsored by Lisa Hackett from the bakery Let Them Eat, based in Saltash, who is offering the winner a chance for their prize pasty to be developed into a commercial product.

Lisa, who will lead a workshop on how to make a gluten-free pasty at the event, said: ’It is really good that the World Pasty Championships is raising awareness of the fact that lots of people do suffer from food allergies but that there are alternatives out there.

’So many people come to Cornwall and just want to eat a pasty but can’t because they have a food allergy.

’This is about embracing gluten-free baking so that everyone – whether you are gluten-intolerant or not – can enjoy a pasty.

’And we’ll help the winner develop their gluten-free category into a product suitable for retail which could be sold around the country.’

Gluten-free pasties will be available to buy at the World Pasty Championships.

For all World Pasty Championships rules and entry details go to  www.edenproject.com/pasty