Published at 11:26, Monday, 05 March 2012

It is a blow – there’s no point in trying to deny it. The loss of the words “By Appointment to HM The Queen” from Carr’s Table Water Biscuits is not good for Carlisle’s morale.

The city’s Caldewgate biscuit factory has been feeding monarchs’ mouths since Queen Victoria gave Table Water Biscuits her seal of approval in 1841. But no longer.

A United Biscuits spokesman said the Carr’s brand no longer carried the Royal Warrant due to “lower demand in the Royal household”.

He added: “The Carlisle factory retains its Royal connections because it also makes McVitie’s and Jacob’s products and these brands will retain the Royal Warrant.”

While Reiver is disappointed that Her Majesty is no longer a fan of Table Water Biscuits, we should surely be impressed that she managed to keep eating them for so long.

Table Water Biscuits’ name is derived from the use of water instead of fat as an ingredient. But has anyone managed to eat them without a glass of water to hand?

The biscuit world has changed considerably since this product was created. Each to their own. But with so many delicious products around – many of them made at Caldewgate – those who prefer the simple delights of the Table Water Biscuit should be congratulated for spurning the temptations of such fancy ingredients as caramel and chocolate.

The question is, what is Her Majesty eating now?

Three products made in Carlisle come to mind: Hobnobs, Gold bars and Rich Tea.

And here’s another Cumbrian export for when Prince Harry nips round – Ginger Nuts.

Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk