Gingerbread George steps forward to raise money for children’s hospice

A BAKERY is launching a sweet treat inspired by Bluebell Wood’s mascot to raise money for the children’s hospice.

The Gingerbread George will make its debut at the Rotherham branch of Staniforths on Effingham Street on April 23 — St George’s Day.

To mark the occasion, the first 100 will be handed out free of charge at an event also featuring the Blu Crew dancers.

Two days later, George will be available at all 16 of the chain’s bakeries across Rotherham, Sheffield and Barnsley.

Staniforths operations manager Julie Wisher said: “As a family-run bakery with our heart very much in the community, we jumped at the chance to support such an amazing local charity in such a fun and inventive way.

“We’re sure Gingerbread George will be a huge success and we’re very excited for all our sweet-toothed customers to try one.”

Twenty per cent of each sale will go to Bluebell Wood, where the “original” George still delights youngsters and their families.

Jason Gossop, regional fundraiser at the charity, said: “I’ve had the privilege of taste testing Gingerbread George and there’s no doubt at all that Staniforth’s creative team is deserving of a Hollywood handshake!

“We’d like to say a big thank you to Staniforths for embracing Gingerbread George with such passion and enthusiasm, and we can’t wait to see our much-loved mascot on shelves across the region.”