Model launches search for ultimate sandwich

Britain is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the humble sandwich, and Jodie Kidd, who has a connection to the family which invented it, is launching a search for the UK’s finest piece.

The sandwich is believed to date from 1762 when John Montagu, the fourth Earl of Sandwich and an inveterate gambler, called for his manservant to bring him some cuts of beef between slices of bread so he could eat while continuing to play cards.

Soon his friends were asking to have the “same as Sandwich” and the sandwich was born.

In calling for the convenience meal he sparked a trend which has developed into an industry which today employs more than 300,000 people in the UK.

Supermodel and TV presenter Ms Kidd, whose paternal grandmother was married to the second son of the ninth Earl, is seeking the Ultimate British Sandwich, in British Sandwich Week, which is partly sponsored by bread company Hovis.

She said: “Sandwiches are one of life’s little pleasures and everyone has their own preferences and opinions on how to prepare the ultimate lunchtime treat.

“My family connections to the Sandwich clan meant I jumped at the chance to team up with Hovis to help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the sandwich, and launch a search for the Ultimate British Sandwich.”