More than 8,000 people have already signed up to take part in a city-wide celebration aiming to break the world record for the largest cream tea party.
The Big Centenary Tea Party will take place at 11am on Tuesday, 8 July, as Stoke-on-Trent marks 100 years since it was granted city status.
So far, more than 88 venues are hosting tea parties across the city and beyond – with organisers calling on even more residents, community groups, schools and workplaces to get involved.
Businesses and organisations including Steelite, Bobby’s Ice Cream Parlour, Emma Bridgewater, Claybody Theatre and Stoke City Community Trust are among those already signed up.
As part of the celebrations, Stoke-on-Trent is aiming to set a new Guinness World Record for the biggest cream tea party. Participants can either host their own event or take part in one of three official ‘hub’ locations: DoubleTree by Hilton at Festival Park, Victoria Hall in Hanley and Stoke Minster.
Claire Furnell King, Cluster General Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Stoke, said: “The team at DoubleTree by Hilton Stoke is thrilled to take part in the Centenary Cream Tea Guinness World Record attempt. In such a milestone year for Stoke, it’s inspiring to see the true ‘Stokie’ spirit shine through as the community – public, schools, and local businesses – comes together for this exciting event.”
Cheryl Taylor, Theatre Director at ATG Entertainment, added: “We are delighted that the Victoria Hall is involved in the city’s world record attempt at hosting the largest cream tea party as part of this year’s centenary celebrations. We’re also really excited to partner with all the incredible local businesses and charities pulling this together, and we can’t wait to smash the world record.”
People are encouraged to either attend one of the official record-attempt events – which will meet Guinness’s criteria, including timed participation, record verification and the correct food items – or host their own party in a way that suits them, whether at home, in a park, at work or in their local community.
The current world record for the largest cream tea party held across multiple venues is held by colleagues from Yorkshire Building Society who had 667 people at their event in aid of charity in June 2015.
While home and community events won’t count towards the official record, organisers say every cup of tea and every scone served will help celebrate the city’s centenary in a meaningful way.
To book a place at one of the hub venues, visit DoubleTree by Hilton, Festival Park, Stoke Minster or Victoria Hall, Hanley, or to host your own celebration, register at: https://forms.gle/FKzemUNuHNbbLjFa8
The Big Centenary Tea Party is being supported by organisations including Cottage Delight and Stoke-on-Trent BID, who are helping to provide tables, chairs and jam on the day.
