The Highland village of Carrbridge is buzzing as the World Porridge Making Championship prepares for its biggest event yet. This year's competition has seen an unprecedented surge in popularity, attracting double the number of entrants compared to its previous highest turnout.
Thirty competitors from 14 countries, including Australia, the Czech Republic, South Africa, and the USA, are set to battle for the prestigious Golden Spurtle. Among the hopefuls is defending world champion Sven Seljom from Norway, who will compete in the main category, requiring traditional porridge made with only oatmeal, water, and salt.
The increased interest is reportedly fuelled by the success of the documentary film, 'The Golden Spurtle'. The film, which followed competitors at the 2023 championships, highlighted the event's unique characters and rivalries, inspiring a record number of people to try their hand at competitive breakfast-making.
Beyond the traditional competition, a speciality porridge category allows for imaginative creations using any ingredients. Last year's winner, Caroline Velik from Australia, crafted porridge jaffles, featuring rum-soaked bananas and toffee rum liqueur.