FRYEBURG – Norma King of Lovell had the best overall two-crusted apple pie at this week’s contest at Fryeburg Fair.

A repeat winner, King was one of 31 entries in the event that draws a huge crowd in the Agricultural Exposition Center.

Judges this year were Tony Martineau of Fryeburg and Richard Files of Freedom, N.H.

“This was one of the hardest contests I’ve had to judge,” said Martineau, a professional chef who has judged four contests here. “I had several pies that were very close in points.”

Judged to have the best filling was Henrietta Taft of Otisfield while Altheare Shaw of South Paris won for best crust. Best Junior winner was to Kimberly Farrington, 13, of Lovell. Best Specialty winner was Melanie Farrington of Lovell for her dietetic apple pie.

The contest is open to any amateur bakers from Maine and New Hampshire. The pies are judged in five categories with a total of four points possible in each: Ease of preparation, texture, flavor of filling, crust and overall appearance. The top three winners are each awarded $75 while the junior and specialty winners earn $25.