By Pamela McGowan

Last updated at 11:50, Tuesday, 24 July 2012

A passion for cake brought strangers from across north Cumbria together at a secret meeting.

Organiser Margaret Scott at the club's first meeting

Held at Circle Bar in Lowther Arcade, Carlisle, the afternoon get together launched the city’s new Clandestine Cake Club.

Part of a growing national movement, it invites sweet-toothed individuals to bring along a cake of their making to share with the group.

The clandestine element is a key factor, as participants are not told the venue until the day before each meeting.

The bake fest proved a huge success, with almost 20 women of varying ages turning out with a vast array of different cakes.

It was organised by Margaret Scott, of Thursby, after she heard about the national clandestine cake movement.

She was joined by her three daughters, some friends and many new faces who didn’t know any of the group until they turned up.

“I’m delighted with the response. It’s purely about cake and having fun, no money changes hands. It’s just an opportunity to meet like minded people, try new ideas and even share recipes. We’re all women though – it would be nice to see some men next time!” she said.

Also at the meeting was Pauline Shaw, from Hallbankgate. “I just wanted to support it and of course there is the added bonus of all the cakes! The turnout has been brilliant. I’m already looking forward to the next one.”

Cakes ranged from lemon drizzle, pecan and maple, and gingerbread to a vast array of unique takes on the traditional Victoria sponge.

The meetings will take place every six weeks at different venues in north Cumbria. To find out more and register visit www.clandestinecakeclub.co.uk.

First published at 11:24, Tuesday, 24 July 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk