Angel cake wows food festival crowds

May 12 2008 by Ben Guy, The Journal

A FAMILIAR looking cake was the centrepiece at a tea party held on the banks of the River Tyne over the weekend.

About 400 children took part in the EAT! in the Street event, which is part of the ongoing food festival, in Baltic Square, Newcastle, on Saturday, with the construction of a giant cake in the shape of the Angel of the North the highlight.

The famous structure was recreated in sponge form to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

Simon Preston, Eat! festival director, said: “EAT! in the Street demonstrates that it’s not only chefs and foodies who can get involved in creating and enjoying good food.”

Visitors on Saturday also had the opportunity to make Rangoli (a popular Indian art form) Angel of the North with Gateshead Arts Development team and using lentils and beans.

Suzanne Heron, The Co-operative’s regional secretary, which is sponsoring the Fairtrade weekend said: “The Co-operative is proud to be involved with EAT! NewcastleGateshead and, as an ethical retailer, delighted to be sponsoring this special weekend.

“We hope these events will show festival-goers that small changes to their shopping habits and choosing Fairtrade products, can make a real difference to farmers in developing worlds.”

The festival forms part of NewcastleGateshead’s programme of festivals and events for 2008, managed by culture10.

Stella Hall, creative director at NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: “The Angel of the North is a fitting centrepiece for an event which forms part of a festival which is attracting people from all over the region and beyond.”

The Journal is running the Taste North East England campaign to encourage more people to buy, use and eat local. To find out more go to www.journallive.co.uk.