The humble mince pie has proved the secret ingredient to financial success for a major food producer with a site in the county.

Premier Foods, which has a sprawling site in Willesborough, Ashford, employing more than 350 people, said sales of its Mr Kipling mince pies soared by 20% in the run up to Christmas.

The brand recorded its biggest ever sales quarter, as Premier Foods revealed group sales increased by 3.1% for the 13 weeks to December 28.

The company, which employs more than 4,000 people nationwide, said sales volumes of its branded products rose by 7%.

Premier Foods produces the likes of Bisto, Paxo, Angel Delight, Birds, Batchelors and McDougalls.

Alex Whitehouse, chief executive of the firm, said: “Our sweet treats business had a particularly strong Christmas with branded sales up 8.9%. Mr Kipling sold 20% more mince pies this year, delivering its biggest ever quarter.

“Earlier this year, we said that consumers are starting to trade up and treat themselves more. This has continued over Christmas with our premium ranges such as Ambrosia Deluxe desserts, Bisto Best gravy and Mr Kipling Signature Brownie Bites performing strongly and we more than doubled the sales of our Mr Kipling Signature mince pies.”

It also added its recently acquired brands - The Spice Tailor and Fuel 10k - had both delivered double digit sales growth.