Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Baking up a storm for fundraiser
A sweet-toothed Airdrie teenager created her own baking enterprise to raise funds for the organisation that has cared for a beloved family member.
Airdrie Academy fifthyear pupil Beth Mcphee came up with “Beth’s Fudge Factory” in aid of her local branch of Cornerstone, whose staff have helped to look after her grandfather after he was diagnosed with vascular dementia.
The 16-year-old began baking during the pandemic and so far has raised more than £500 for the charity.
Beth told the Advertiser: “I wanted to do this for my grandad and other people who are in a similar situation.
“I was baking at my gran’s house so that’s where I started. My gran said she is ‘so proud of me’.”
Beth’s parents Lesley and Graeme and younger sister Lily are equally bowled over by what the teenage baker has achieved so far.
Lesley beamed: “A lot of people have promoted it. My best friend Lisa Mccloy works for the NHS as a senior charge nurse in Glasgow’s Royal Infirmary and she promoted it all over Facebook.
“Cornerstone has made a massive difference to my dad. All of the staff that come from the charity are brilliant; it’s nice to be able to say thank you.”
And Beth also created special bakes for Halloween and other occasions to order.
She told us: “I had quite a lot to do. I baked about 20 batches of goodies.
“I did fudge and also made cupcakes, as well as afternoon tea boxes.
“Everyone has said that they liked them and a lot of people have ordered again.
“I’ve raised more than £500 and I’m looking to raise as much as I can.”
Lesley added: “It only just started as a wee social enterprise, but she has learned lots of skills for life.
“Both her dad and I are really proud of her.
“She has worked tirelessly and has really challenged herself. Her sister Lily helps as well; we all get roped in as her fudge making apprentices.”