The Village bakers are an LGBT social group with the aim to Bake it! Bring it! Share it! Within Manchester’s Gay Village. Inspired by the Great British Bake Off, the Village Bakers was formed in November 2012 by a group of friends meeting and sharing homemade cake and lots of glasses of wine. Since then, the group has grown in popularity with over 500 followers on Facebook & Twitter.
Kevin Sargent Chair of Village Bakers: “Village Bakers are extremely proud to have been recognised as an Awesome Network. Our philosophy is to be an all inclusive social group at the heart of the LGBT Community with a simple belief that there is no better way to make friends then sharing a big slice of cake.”
Inclusive Networks Awesome Network Awards are about showing what LGBT groups have achieved in 2014, something special or a highlight that makes them stand out. This helps to create a more inclusive society where diversity is being celebrated and members feel fully part and taking an active role within the group/network.
Thomas Anderson, Inclusive Networks Founder and Chief Executive, quotes: “The diversity of the nominations received in our first Awesome Network list is a celebration of the many authentic networks around the UK that have each made their mark and have a real positive impact on those people who engage with them, and in many cases, the communities where they operate. From the nominations received, it’s clear that Village Bakers are offering unique networking opportunities where everyone is welcome. The group of dedicated volunteers are going the extra mile to support many charities and community groups too – something that should be applauded. What a great combination a G&T, slice of cake and plenty of friendly faces is!”
The Village Bakers had a fabulous year in 2014, seeing the group go from strength to strength with increasing membership numbers and taking part in events such as Sparkle & IDAHOBIT as well as ‘The Great Village Bake Off’, part of Manchester Pride Fringe supported by Manchester’s Molly House… a truly spectacular event… the culmination of a huge amount of baking talent within the sweet and savoury categories. Judging the event was baking expert and finalist of 2013 BBC Great British Bake Off, Mr Howard Middleton whose baking knowledge was a fantastic addition to the competition and really made the event work well. Village Bakers also won LGF Homo Hero award 2014 which showed hard work and commitment from the committee and members as well as support from the wider Manchester community. They are very excited for 2015 and already have lots of exciting events in the pipeline.
