A couple from Southampton want to win the best sandwich in Britain.

Katharina and Simon Brodribb, owners of Uptons of Bassett, have been shortlisted for the UK Sandwich and Food to Go Designer of the Year competition.

Katarina won three places in the final for her delicious creations: spicy and sour bacon sandwich, smoked bun and crispy chicken with wasabi punch.

Simon advanced to the finals with his expertly crafted feta and mekes wrap, which he dubbed “Mountain of Feta and Mekes”.

The annual competition invites sandwich professionals from across the country to participate in the creation of an innovative sandwich or takeaway that uses the sponsor’s ingredient as the main element, as well as other ingredients of their choice.

Having reached the final, Katarina said: “We have been participating in this competition for many years and we know how difficult it is to reach the final.

“This year I have three different sandwiches in the final, which is interesting and intimidating because I have to present them to the best chefs.

“I worked very hard to reach this level and our kids ate sandwiches once or twice a day for several weeks.

“I really hope to take home at least one prize and beat my man.”

Simon added: “I am very proud to be in the final. There is nothing better than fierce competition to bring out the best in a person.

“Every year I participate, it empowers me, tests my skills and forces me to create something new and especially delicious.

“I’m looking forward to the final and to meet the best in our industry again.”

Uptons on Winchester Road has been a butcher shop for over 70 years.

Simon and Katarina purchased the restaurant 30 years ago and have been running it ever since.

The competition is organized by the British Sandwich and Takeaway Association and the finalists prepare their sandwiches live at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London on Thursday 4 May.

They are overseen by an elite group of experts, including celebrity chef Theo Randall.

Jim Winship, Director of the British Sandwich and Takeaway Association said: “Every year we are amazed at the number of entries in this competition; it truly is a showcase for the best in sandwich making.

“Each chef pushes the boundaries of taste and design, turning what some consider an everyday ingredient into something completely unique.

“The sandwiches prepared by Katarina and Simon are definitely worthy of the finalists. Moving on to the finale, I can’t wait to hear what the judges think of each entry.”