There was an interesting article in the Bury Free Press in England recently.

Although 2012 was the year of the Olympics in London, when the world tuned in to watch the creme de la creme in the sporting world battling it out, there is also an Olympics of sorts underway in Bury St Edmunds.

What is it?

In truth, it is the name the locals have coined for the regional barista championships which are underway in the area, while searching for the UK winner, who will represent the country in the World Barista Championships in Melbourne later in the year.

It is said to be the most prestigious competition in the coffee world and this is why the Olympic title has been given to it.

The Championships encourage high standards and skills in baristas and also show the development of the coffee industry on a world stage.

As well as watching the baristas showcase their skills and crafts, there is also the opportunity to sample some free coffee.

What tests do the baristas have to undertake?

They have just a quarter of an hour to prepare four cappuccinos, four espressos and four signature drinks   twelve drinks to impress the judges.

And there are also four heats to test the baristas, before the semi-final and the final in the capital city.