MOST people would struggle to a eat one mince pie in 18 seconds but shoppers in Swindon were being challenged to do that three times in a row.

It was a hard challenge to tackle – devouring three mince pies in 54 seconds – but volunteers at the Samaritans were asking residents on Saturday at Sainsbury’s in Bridgemead to attempt to beat the World Guinness Book of Records winner Robert Edward Lee from Australia.

The charity decided it would be a good way to raise awareness and funds for their organisation, which offers emotional support to those in crisis.

The rules stipulated that each mince pie had to measure at least two and half inches.

Grandmother Diana Greenwood, 55, of Malborough was the first person to attempt the mission.

She managed to finish the Christmas treats off in two minutes 29 seconds.

She said: “It was hard. It was disgusting – I do normally love mince pies but they were quite tough.”

She said only time would tell to see if she could still stomach the pies again on Christmas day.

Anne Ferguson, 40, of Old Town, also took on the challenge. She managed to finish hers off in an impressive one minute 42 seconds.

“It was awful, they are quite dry and you can’t have a drink in between.” said Anne.

While the record breaking attempts were going on, a team of Samaritans volunteers donned Santa outfits to collect funds for the charity outside the store.

“It is a wonderful cause,” said Anne. “It provides 24 hour support for people who need it and I’m happy to help fundraise for them.”

l If there is something troubling you, Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call 08457 90 90 90.