Two Great British Bake Off stars are encouraging Harrogate residents to take part in Yorkshire's Big Brew—a tea-party fundraiser to support Yorkshire Cancer Research during its 100th anniversary year.
Bakers Rowan Claughton and Freya Cox are backing the initiative, which invites people to host tea parties during Afternoon Tea Week (11–17 August) to raise money for life-saving research.
Participants will receive a free fundraising pack, including an exclusive rhubarb doughnut cake recipe created by Rowan, who said the bake was inspired by Yorkshire’s heritage and community spirit.
Rowan said:
“What inspired my bake for Yorkshire Cancer Research is my love of Yorkshire. Born in Leeds and now living in York, I’ve always felt the region’s strength lies in its people – warm, welcoming, and always ready to come together over a cuppa. That’s what Yorkshire’s Big Brew is all about.
“Generations of local farmers have supplied us with world-famous forced rhubarb, so what better way to support this campaign than with my rhubarb doughnut cake? It’s made with seasonal Yorkshire ingredients and puts a fun twist on tradition – perfect for hosting a Big Brew this Afternoon Tea Week.”
He added:
“By taking part in this year’s Yorkshire Big Brew, you’ll be raising funds to help people in Yorkshire living with cancer.
"I have experienced cancer within my own circle throughout my life, from losing my grandma when I was only a toddler to more recently having experienced the loss of a loved one.
"Just £20 raised at your own Afternoon Tea party could fund an hour of a researcher’s time. Every cuppa, every cake and every pound counts. Let’s save lives – one Big Brew at a time.”
Freya, who has provided a vegan version of the recipe, added:
“Nothing brings me more joy than sharing a brew and a slab of cake, so a campaign that raises money for a brilliant cause by doing just that? It’s a yes from me.
“Yorkshire rhubarb is often overlooked and not celebrated enough, so we wanted to give it a chance to shine and show how well a seasonal ingredient can transform the flavour of a light and fluffy cake!
“Cancer affects us all in some way, and it’s vital we come together to help people with cancer and their loved ones. Yorkshire’s Big Brew is such a positive, accessible way to do that. Raising money while enjoying tea and cake – it’s a win-win.”
In Harrogate, around 63 people are diagnosed with cancer each week.
Yorkshire Cancer Research funds services and research aimed at improving cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment across the region.
Dr Kathryn Scott, Chief Executive of the charity, said:
“Thanks to the dedication and generosity of fundraisers across Yorkshire, Yorkshire Cancer Research funds pioneering cancer research and innovative new services for people with cancer in the region.
"Those who take part in Yorkshire’s Big Brew will be helping fund cancer researchers and experts find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, supporting the charity’s vision for a Yorkshire free of cancer.”
To host a Big Brew and receive a free fundraising pack, visit Yorkshire Cancer Research’s website.
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