We are giving away 6,000 mince pies for the Hull community to enjoy during this year’s Christmas lights switch on.

Local residents can pick up a free festive favourite at Hull’s Queen Victoria Square during the event on the 18th November, which marks the start of the city’s Christmas activity and the first big lights switch on in two years.

As well as traditional mince pies, the new M&S Percymas Pies will also be available for attendees to try, complete with Percy Pig flavour sponge, pink fondant icing and hand finished with a Percy Pig sweet.

With strong roots here in Hull, we wanted to help local residents get in to the festive spirit, and what better way than with free mince pies! Whilst the nation has been enjoying the summer season, we’ve been busy preparing approximately 150 million mince pies for the nation to enjoy over the festive period. Residents in Hull can pick up a pie at the event and get a taste of what we’ve been working on.

Our NPD (new product development) team has been working closely with Britain’s biggest retailers on a range of mince pies that showcase modern day twists on the classic mince pie, including speculoos and vegan alternatives. However, even with new and exciting alternatives hitting the shelves this Christmas, we’re expecting the traditional buttery, crisp pastry packed with mincemeat and baked in aromatic spices, as well as lots of plump vine fruits, will continue to be a firm favourite.

Lord Mayor of Kingston Upon Hull, Councillor Lynn Petrini said: “The Christmas lights switch-on signals the start of the festive period here in Hull and what better way to get in the spirit than with a delicious mince pie.

“Thanks to BBF Limited for providing 6,000 for visitors to the event to enjoy.”

If you’re heading down to the Christmas light switch on, be sure to get down early to bag a free mince pie. There’s no catch but they’re available on a first come, first served basis!