Paragon’s Bake Off bonus for Yorkshire charity

Staff at Paragon Veterinary Referrals risked piling on the pounds to raise plenty of pounds for a Leeds animal charity.

Vets, nurses and administrative team members staged their own version of the hit TV show, The Great British Bake Off, as a fun fundraiser for Hope Pastures. 

Run in collaboration with sister vet practice, Calder Vets, the result was a mouth-watering collection of cakes, pastries, pies and rolls and a tasty £240 donation to help care for horses, ponies and donkeys in need.

Vet nurse Lydia Barry, who organised the event, said: “The Bake Off was great fun, the goodies were amazing and the added bonus was we raised £240 for charity!

“Everyone made a massive effort and the tables were groaning with food. We had home-made brownies, chocolate cake, cookies, cheese scones, sausage rolls and loads more.

“Like on the programme there were a few mishaps along the way. One of our nurses fell asleep and her cake was two hours overcooked but it still tasted delicious!”

There was a serious side behind all the fun and food, with the event staged in memory of former colleague Lynsey Bacon, who worked at Calder Vets.

Lydia explained: “Lynsey was a much-loved colleague who passed away unexpectedly two years ago.

“She was a valued team member at Calder and was also passionate about horses and their welfare.

“That’s why we chose Hope Pastures as our charity as it rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes horses, ponies and donkeys.

“They also provide the opportunity for people to meet the animals and learn more about them and how to look after them.”

For more information about Hope Pastures, visit www.hopepastures.org.