Brits are being invited to take part in a treasure hunt worth up to £55,000 – by finding one of 55 ‘golden dough balls’ hidden around the UK.

The golden orbs, currently being held at a secret location in London, will be transported to their hiding places ahead of the competition launching on Sunday.

Anyone fortunate enough to find one could win £1,000 worth of PizzaExpress gift cards to share with family and friends.

This is the second year of PizzaExpress’ annual dough ball hunt with this year’s marking its 55th birthday.

Zoe Bowley, managing director at PizzaExpress, said: “Following last year’s celebration of our iconic dough ball, we’re incredibly excited to be bringing back the hunt for our 55th anniversary.  

“With the search for 55 balls culminating on our very own birthday, we hope everyone joins in with what is set to be a truly epic celebration.”

All 55 balls will be hidden across the UK from Sunday February 9th – which is also National Pizza Day – until the hunt ends on PizzaExpress’ 55th birthday on Friday March 27.

However, the restaurant chain has revealed a number of dough balls will be hidden in PizzaExpress deliveries carried out by Deliveroo.

Some will also be found in the pizzeria’s ‘Cook At Home’ range which is available from selected supermarkets.

For clues on where to find the dough balls, follow the hunt by visiting @PizzaExpress on Instagram or using hashtag #PE55.