'I can’t believe it!' - Mayo woman winner of the 2025 National Brown Bread Baking Competition

Maureen Igoe from Bonniconlon, county Mayo, is the winner of The 2025 National Brown Bread Baking Competition, supported by Euronics and in association with the National Ploughing Association (NPA) and the Irish Countrywomen's Association (ICA).

Speaking about her win, Maureen said,

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“I can’t quite believe it! I’ve been baking for over 50 years and this is definitely a highlight. People keep asking if I have a special ingredient, and I definitely think a drop or two of Guinness and a spoonful of treacle makes the difference.

“I’m going home to Mayo a very happy woman!"

The final was held on Thursday September 18, in the National Brown Bread Baking Competition tent at the National Ploughing Championships in Screggan, Co Offaly, where Maureen rose to the challenge and emerged victorious.

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Maureen was commended by judge Eileen Brennan, winner of the competition in 1973, she said "The bread was nicely cooked and was presented well. I believe you eat with your eyes, but the taste was also lovely and unique, making it a winner”.

Maureen will take home a cash prize of €5,000 and a NEFF Slide & Hide oven, with the three finalists Kathy Bolger from Wexford, Pauline Browne from Dublin and Áine Cotter from Cork all walking away with a €500 Euronics gift card.