Vast orders
Date published: 04 September 2009
Photo: Pictures by ANTHONY MILLER
STEAMING in . . . Vikki prepares another rag pud.
Oldham Works: a Chronicle campaign to boost Oldham, its business, and its people
Pub’s puds go down a treat
VIKKI Newman is quickly developing legendary status down at the bustling Colliers Arms in Chadderton.
Her glowing reputation at the friendly Old Lane pub is all down to her grandmother Mavis — and her secret family recipe for traditional rag puddings.
Vikki, together with landlord Dave Mowbray, decided to put the tasty puds on the menu shortly after Vikki joined as a chef a couple of months ago.
“We get a lot of older people in for meals so I thought it might be something they would enjoy,” said Vikki, of Manor Close, Chadderton.
The 22-year-old is a dab-hand in the kitchen — and the puddings are going down a storm. Now Vikki’s making up to 100 a week to meet demand.
“One bloke came in and tried one on Sunday, then came back and ordered 14 to take home on the Wednesday,” added Vikki.
“He then brought 12 of his friends in the following Sunday! I think it’s brilliant. I love making them and it’s nice to know they’re what people enjoy.”
Vikki owes her success to the recipe handed down to her by her gran, Mavis Lockwood (65), of Mora Avenue, Chadderton.
“She has been making them for years, and still makes them every Tuesday night for all the family,” said Vikki.
Dave said: “People keep asking for the rag puds — it’s just snowballed.
“The puddings are like nothing I’ve ever sold before, but they are a traditional dish and we are finding a lot of older people on their own are taking them home so they don’t have to cook.”
