Foster’s MD honoured

Foster’s Bakery MD John Foster is to be presented with an honorary degree of ’Doctor of the University’ by Sheffield Hallam University in November. Operations director Michael Taylor said it recognised his achievements as an internationally known baker, and reflected decades of voluntary service to local people, the food industry and, of course, to Sheffield Hallam University.

Architectural triumph

Pork Farms’ Riverside Bakery, designed by specialist food and drink sector architect Cox Freeman, has been named as one of the top 50 buildings built in the East Midlands in the last 50 years. The list was compiled by the Royal Institute of British Architects.

Poppy fundraiser

Hovis is to support The Royal British Legion’s annual poppy appeal for the second year running. The brand is aiming to raise £100,000 through an on-pack promotion 4p from every special bag of Hovis Seed Sensations sold between 20 October and 16 November will be donated to the appeal.

Manchester pie

Wrexham pie-maker Robert Didier has created a new pie in a culinary homage to his favourite city Manchester. Didier, a former protégé of Raymond Blanc, developed the Manchester pie, made at his firm, Orchard Pigs, near Wrexham, with ingredients from the north west and north Wales, including Welsh beef.

Xmas pud developed

Harrogate Cake Company has launched a new handmade Christmas pudding following help from deliciouslyorkshire. It offered technical advice, and worked with the firm to develop a recipe with improved shelf life and taste qualities.