An Abergavenny butcher on his competition debut has won the coveted Welsh Pork Butcher award at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair in Builth Wells.

Craig Holly, aged 28, works for Neil Powell Butchers in Flannel Street.

He and his fellow finalists were given two hours to create an innovative and creative display from half a Welsh pig, using either modern or traditional methods and packaging to best promote Welsh pork to consumers.

“I just entered the competition for the experience to be honest and I still don’t believe that I won,” he said.

“I was pretty nervous and had to correct one or two mistakes, but I’m really chuffed.

“I’m definitely going to do a few more competitions because it was nice to see things that inspired me.”

A performing arts student who dropped out of university to launch a career as a butcher also found himself in the spotlight.

Sam Hughes, 22, from Brian Crane Butchers, Maesycwmmer proved himself to be ‘top of the chops’ as he won the Welsh Young Butcher competition, which is open to butchers under the age of 25. He also finished joint third in the Welsh Pork Butcher contest won by Craig, which is open to butchers of all ages.

Both finals are stepping stones to UK-wide competitions.