Michelle creates a landmark cake

The towering Angel of the North treat was created by Penshaw mum-of-four Michelle Newman for the Alzheimer’s Society to mark its Cupcake Day on Thursday.

The charity is encouraging everyone to bake, sell or buy cupcakes at events up and down the country.

From organising a sale at a school to hosting a get-together at the weekend, it’s easy to get involved.

And every cupcake sold will help to find a cure for dementia, fund vital services and campaign for the rights of people with dementia.

Michelle, 33, whose artesan company Treet House specialises in unique, homemade party cakes, created the colossal 8kg Angle of the North cupcake after being approached by the charity.

She said: “My grandmother had dementia so I was thrilled to be able to use my cake-making skills to raise awareness of the condition.

“It was a real challenge as I’ve never attempted anything quite like it before, but I’m delighted with the result.”

Michelle’s grandmother Margaret McKuch died in 2014, aged 88. She had vascular dementia but Michelle believes the condition went undiagnosed for many years.

She said: “Her son, my dad, died when he was just 46 and then my grandfather died five years later.”

Michelle added: “I think Cupcake Day is a great idea. It’s something people of all ages and backgrounds can get involved in.”

You can sign up at cupcakeday.org.uk for a free Cupcake Kit and discover how to bring your own unique style to the table. Alzheimer’s Society is encouraging all bakers to share pictures of creations using #CupcakeDay on Twitter and Instagram.