The new record more than doubled the previous official record best, set by restaurant chain Subway.

Sandwich lovers from across the UK gathered at the event, organised by the British Sandwich Association, to launch its ‘Love Lunch' campaign encouraging people to take a regular lunch break.

Research conducted by the British Sandwich Association has shown that more than 25% of adults in the UK don't even make time for the legal 20 minute break in the working day and that over 20% admit to regularly skipping lunch altogether.

BSA director Jim Winship explained: "Setting a new world record is the perfect way to kick off our British Sandwich Week celebrations and I am delighted that so many people turned out to support us.

"The world record event was really all about having fun however I hope that some of the more serious messages of the campaign about the benefits of stepping away from your desk, grabbing some fresh air and refuelling at lunch time will encourage people to make time for a proper lunch break."