AN East Lancashire bakers is hoping to to be picked as the best of the batch at this year's baking 'BAFTAs'.

Having already won a clutch of awards, Oddies is hoping to add Independent Craft Bakery Business of the Year 2002.

Bakery manager Andy Howes first started earning his crust with Oddies when he was sent from school on work experience.

Like one of his prize winning loaves Andy has been able to rise through the company he has worked for for 25 years.

He said: "You should never say you are confident of winning anything, but I personally believe that we are one of the best bakers in the industry."

Formed in 1905 by Bill Oddie the company now have shops stretching from Blackburn to Colne and employ 220 staff.

So what is the secret of their recipe for success? "We like to feel that we can give that personal touch.

"We get to know our customers and we put a lot of emphasis on that. We all work hard and at the end of the day we are a team."

At the glittering awards ceremony which is being held at London's Grosvenor House Hotel at the end of this month, Andy is hoping to make the right impression with hosts Alistair McGowan and Match of the Day's Steve Ryder.

Bakers the length and breadth of Britain have competed for the prize, but only one can be chosen as the eventual winner.

"Even if we don't win we are going to have a good time,, Andy added.

Joining Andy at the awards ceremony will be finishing supervisor Deborah Jackson and bakery supervisor Ian Tibbs.

Both helped Oddies pick up the title of Champion British Bakers in 1993. Deborah said: "I think we are going to win it, I just have this feeling."