Record number of entries for the 2017 Academy of Chocolate Awards

The Academy of Chocolate has confirmed receipt of more than 900 entries from across the world for its 2017 Academy of Chocolate Awards.

With entries up from 300 in 2016, the academy has also announced award-winning pastry chef and consultant Sarah Hartnett as the 2017 chair of judges, with judging commencing next week at Westminster Kingsway College, London.

Hartnett will have the job of co-ordinating a group of expert judges ranging from chocolatiers, pastry chefs, food and drink writers, journalists, buyers and industry experts to award this year's chocolates Gold, Silver and Bronze awards as well as special awards including; the Golden Bean award, Newcomer award, Mott Green Sustainability award and Rising Star award.

"I'm thrilled to be part of the Academy of Chocolate Awards, which is going from strength to strength each year," said Hartnett.

"The record number of entries is a clear indication of the growing significance they hold in the industry and I am very excited to see what's being produced."