Greggs giving away free festive bakes in Sunderland ahead of national launch - here's how to get one

The arrival of the festive bake at Greggs is eagerly awaited by many and it's become a sign 'tis the season to start your shopping.

The product has become so well loved that Greggs even launched a website - isthefestivebakeoutyet.com - dedicated to the festive bake, with a count down facility to help fans tick off the days.

The popular pastries go on sale nationwide on Thursday November 8. But Greggs' loyal Sunderland customers have a chance to grab one earlier - and for free at that.

To celebrate the bake's return, the North East-based chain will be giving away 100 of them for free in its Union Street branch in Sunderland - one of only 16 locations in the country to enjoy the first taste.

The giveaway will only be available at the Union Street shop during afternoon rush hour, from 4pm, on Wednesday 7 November.

A Greggs spokeswoman said: "If you want to get your hands on one, simply turn up and form an orderly queue.

"Once they’re gone they’re gone – until they go on sale nationwide on Thursday 8 November."

The Festive Bake is made from pieces of chicken breast, sage & onion stuffing and sweetcure bacon in a creamy sage and cranberry sauce - all wrapped in golden puff pastry with a crunchy crumb topping, and available from £1.50.

Greggs’ savoury Christmas menu also includes its Christmas lunch sandwich; pigs under blankets baguette; turkey, bacon and cranberry roll; and Christmas lunch soup.

Festive Bakes will also be available to buy from Iceland, in store and online, from November 19.