Chair of the judges and pastry chef Sarah Hartnett said: “We started our judging with filled chocolates which have a short shelf life and taste best when freshest. The job of awarding Gold awards was no mean feat.

“In a gold award chocolate, a fabulous appearance should be complemented by a sensational well-balanced filling.”

Winners included newcomers Chocolat Grace from North Carolina, USA, Rococo, and Harry’s Chocs, from social enterprise Harry Specters, which employs young people with autism.

Overall, 900 entries were received for the Academy of Chocolate Awards from countries all over the world.

Sarah Jayne Stanes OBE, Academy chairman, said: “We are particularly happy about the overall quality, craftsmanship, and enthusiasm shown in the entries.

“We are thrilled at the talent and creativity of newcomers and applaud the constant brilliance and expertise of regular entrants.”

Over the next few week Hartnett and her team will continue to judge other categories of drinks, spreads, bars, and bean to bar.

Entries for the award must contain natural ingredients with no artificial flavourings or colourings.

A full list of winners in this category can be viewed here.