Come and celebrate Lighthouse 200 with the unveiling of a very special celebratory cake – inspired by a surprising piece of Berwick history.
In December 1907, an advert appeared in the Berwickshire News and General Advertiser inviting readers to: “Look out for Berwick Lighthouse. No more shipwrecks in High Street. All solid cake, over 4cwt.”
The advert was placed by John Jacob Simmen of Café Royal, a local “cook and chocolatier” whose confectionery shop, tea room and restaurant became a much-loved part of Berwick’s High Street.
Simmen and his son had already made headlines with an enormous 210-pound wedding cake displayed in their window in 1907. The following year, they went one better – creating a giant Christmas cake in the shape of Berwick Lighthouse, weighing around 400 pounds and made from solid fruit cake. Slices could be bought from two pounds upwards, at one shilling per pound.
So, more than 100 years later, the tradition continues.
For Lighthouse 200, local baker Jim Ford of Ford’s Bakers will create a brand-new Lighthouse cake, bringing this extraordinary piece of Berwick history back to life. The cake will be unveiled at Berwick Market on Marygate, and you’ll be able to tuck in and enjoy as part of the celebrations.
There’ll be live music from Mae Thompson’s Berwick Ensembles mini band, as well as a chance to join in the wider Lighthouse 200 celebrations.
The cake celebration will coincide with Berwick Literary Festival’s free family event, Babblin’ Animal Raps by Christian Foley, making this a great opportunity for families to enjoy music, words, cake and a little bit of local history.
Come along, hear the story, enjoy the music and grab a slice while stocks last.
Lighthouse 200 Cake Celebration is part of the programme marking 200 years of Berwick Lighthouse.
Please note: Babblin’ Animal Raps by Christian Foley is a separate free, bookable Berwick Literary Festival family event. Booking is required for this event.
Lighthouse 200 is a celebration of the people, stories and creativity inspired by Berwick Lighthouse over 200 years – and an invitation to experience this familiar landmark in a whole new light. Thanks to our supporters and funders including North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, Northumberland County Council, Harbour Commission, Create Berwick and the Living Barracks Partnership.