SHEPHERD NEAME JOINS LOCAL SUPPLIERS TO LAUNCH SPECIAL HOT CROSS BUNS FOR EASTER

Independent family brewer Shepherd Neame’s iconic Spitfire Amber Ale is among the ingredients in a new savoury Hot Cross bun made by a fellow Kentish business.

Award-winning bakery Gilda, which is set in Bishopsbourne in the countryside near Canterbury, is launching a special collaboration highlighting some of Kent’s finest produce – Ashmore Cheddar and Spitfire Ale Hot Cross Buns.

Spitfire Amber Ale infuses the buns with rich, malt flavours, while the inclusion of Ashmore Cheddar from the Cheesemakers of Canterbury adds a savoury twist on the traditional fruit hot cross bun.

Known for its creamy texture and subtle nutty undertones, Ashmore cheese perfectly complements the hearty flavours of the ale.

The collaboration embodies Gilda Bakery’s commitment to supporting and championing local businesses that share a passion for quality and tradition.

“We couldn’t be more excited to be collaborating with such iconic Kent suppliers,” said Jon Warren, Managing Director and Founder of Gilda Bakery.

Shepherd Neame Brands Marketing Manager, Rose Davis, added: “Using locally-sourced ingredients wherever possible and partnering with local suppliers is something we strive to do, and we are delighted that our iconic brand, Spitfire, is helping this truly local collaboration fly high this Easter.

“We have enjoyed a long association with the Cheesemakers of Canterbury ourselves, as they are among our local suppliers, and we are delighted to combine this with such an innovative take on such a traditional favourite with Gilda Bakery.”

Gilda’s Easter collection also features Chocolate Hot Cross Buns with chocolate brownie chunks as well as traditional fruit hot cross buns, a hot cross bun loaf, a contemporary take on the classic Simnel Cake, and a classic sticky toffee pudding.

The Easter Collection is available for pre-order at www.gildabakery.com and at the bakery in Bishopsbourne, near Canterbury. A selection of these products will also be able to be purchased at Faversham Market every Saturday and through various wholesale customers including Macknade in Faversham, Gibson’s Farm shop in Wingham and Perry Court Farm shop near Ashford, recent winners of Farm Shop of the Year in the Kent and Medway Food & Drink Awards.