We’ve become used to hearing how climate change is affecting distant continents. However in recent weeks its effects have been all too evident on our collective doorstep. Storm Dennis brought flooding and disruption into our community, and that surely underlines the validity of the climate change initiative launched last month.
We got off to an excellent start. The Cake and Climate Bake Off at the Mackenzie Hall on February 1 drew a crowd of about 120, including many young families. It was gratifying to see the hall buzzing with engagement and enthusiasm. The bake off proved hugely popular. A total of 26 magnificent cakes were entered in four categories. Also massively popular, particularly with the children, was the appearance of Bjorn the polar bear. We’re very fortunate to have a hot line from Brockweir to the polar regions, which enabled us to arrange his visit.
Then there was the more serious business of the afternoon. We adopted and adapted the concept of speed dating to launch our five climate change hubs: Food, Transport, Energy, Land use and Stuff (aka consumption and waste). Each hub had a table with details of plans for events and action, and audience members were invited to sign up at any hub that interested them. After 10 minutes a bell was rung and everyone was invited to move to another hub. Each hub attracted a great deal of interest and about 75 people signed up as supporters, in many cases signing on with more than one hub.
Hats off to all those who entered cakes in the Bake off. Congratulations to the winners in each category: best looking cake, Alison Macklin; best tasting, Liz, Frank and Karla Garnham; best “free from”, Matthew Stone; most outrageous, the Hulme family.