CATERING students proved they were upper crust when they took home the prizes in a national bread baking competition.

Bakery students from Darlington College of Technology claimed six accolades, including two firsts, two seconds and two thirds in the Rank Hovis bread competition.

More than 400 competitors battled it out at the event in Scarborough. They were given an hour to prepare and bake a 1lb white and a 1lb granary loaf.

Judges assessed the students' technique and the shape and taste of the loaves.

Darlington College catering tutor Donna Joyce said: "We had 15 entries and came away with six prizes, which was a superb result in a national competition.

"Many of the students have done so well they are planning to stay at college for an extra year and take the next level."

Andrew King and Alan Busby, both of Darlington were winners, with Chiara Savino, of Barnard Castle, and Matthew Dobson, of Darlington coming second. Eliza Tang and Colin Robson, of Darlington took third prize.