ONE of the key indicators that Christmas is nearly here has hit the high street: Bakeries are stocking mince pies.

And the sweet treats are already racing off the shelves for Bolton’s Poundbakery.

The Sidney Street-based firm hand-make the festive favourite and freshly bake them in store daily, featuring a generous helping of fruity mincemeat in a short crust pastry.

Poundbakery’s marketing manager, Keely Palin, said: “Poundbakery’s mince pies are so popular year on year and they’re the perfect pick me up after hours of Christmas shopping. At just £1 for 4 delicious mince pies, there really is no excuse to give them a try.”

Poundbakery, founded by Sayers, has become a real Bolton business success story, with new stores having recently opened throughout the midlands.