In this episode of the Big River Bakery podcast, Andy Haddon reflects on the last five years of the bakery's journey, with a focus on its expansion in Shieldfield in Newcastle and its collaboration with the Hairy Bikers. Key highlights include:
The Choice of Shieldfield:
The bakery’s location in Shieldfield, an underinvested area in Newcastle, was chosen for its historical significance and potential to rebuild community connections. Andy emphasizes the importance of fostering a sense of belonging through shared food and spaces, inspired by communal ovens from the past.
The Hairy Bikers’ Impact:
A chance encounter with Si King of the Hairy Bikers led to the bakery’s appearance on their Go North series on BBC1, where the team baked stotties, ham, and pease pudding together. The show provided significant exposure, attracting customers locally and globally, and helped raise funds for essential baking equipment.
The Hairy Bikers’ support not only boosted the bakery’s visibility but also showcased its core values, inspiring connections and growth worldwide.Community, Values, and Innovation:
Andy discusses the bakery’s commitment to accessibility, selling affordable baked goods like stotties while preserving the essence of community pride, resilience, and resourcefulness.
He highlights the bakery’s role in creating an equitable food system and inspiring positive action on local and global challenges, such as climate change and food security, through approachable and empathetic solutions.The episode underscores how collaborations, chance opportunities, and a focus on shared values have enabled the bakery to grow and thrive while making a positive impact on the community.
Visit Big River Bakery: Experience the bakery’s inclusive atmosphere and taste their iconic stotties and other baked goods. Every purchase supports their mission of creating healthy, affordable food while fostering community connections. We are 40-42 Wretham Place Shieldfield. Newcastle NE2 1XU Google Maps
Support Local Food Initiatives: Follow the Hairy Bikers’ lead by championing local, socially conscious businesses. By buying from or collaborating with enterprises like Big River Bakery, you contribute to building resilient and sustainable communities.
You can contact us gail@bigriverbakery.com to find out ways to collaborate.
Engage in Community Building: Take inspiration from Big River Bakery’s approach to rebuilding a sense of belonging in Shield Field. Participate in or support projects in your area that bring people together through shared activities like baking, gardening, or community events.
If you enjoyed this episode you can donate to our community projects here
To find out more about Big River Bakery - you can visit our website here