A SPECIAL food-eating contest will be held by various businesses in Newport later this month to raise money for charity.

Local solicitors firm Hornby Baker Jones & Wood (HBJ&W) has teamed up with Newport Market butchers Turner AD & Sons and The Cross Keys pub on Market Street, to hold a food challenge worthy of the popular TV programme Man v Food, made famous in America. The event is in aid of the firm’s chosen charity, Ty Hafan.

The concept of Man v Food came to prominence as a reality TV series in the US in 2008, a show which follows competitive eater Adam Richman around the United States as he eats foods of extreme portion size.

The Cross Keys will host a similar event on Monday, December 16, where 10 participants will be faced with the monumental task of devouring an eight pound-heavy meat feast consisting of one whole chicken, a 29oz steak, eight lamb chops, a portion of chips and onion rings.

The fastest person to complete the epic challenge will be given a trophy, as well as significant “man points”.

Andrew Collingbourne, managing partner of HBJ&W, said: “It’s something innovative and different that we hope will capture the festive mood and generosity of the people of Newport during this time of year.”

“We think that this will be massive and will be the next big thing in pubs and clubs across the country. We have been amazed by the interest so far but we are trying to keep numbers realistic for logistical reasons.

“I’m a big fan of the programme but I completely underestimated the response we’ve had. Every penny raised on the night will be going towards Ty Hafan so it’s for a great cause and one that should be recognised more here in Newport.”

Participants will have to plough through around £50 worth of meat, with all steaks cooked well-done to avoid any unfair advantages. No alcohol will be consumed during the event, only water, while a carton of chips and a half-a-dozen onion rings will complete the unenviable task facing the contestants.

Butcher Tony Turner, 74, said: “When I heard it from Andrew I thought ‘what a great idea’. It will put Newport on the map and will help to boost trade in local businesses.

“There are not many traditional butchers left so it’s great that they are sponsoring the meat and we are only too happy to help the charity. I can’t remember something like this being done in Newport before – it’s going to be great.”

Entry is £2 on the door with all proceeds going towards Ty Hafan.