'Matchmaker' theme for Clandestine Cake Club

A 'matchmaker' theme inspired the treats on offer at a secret gathering of cake lovers on Tuesday.

Windsor and Maidenhead Clandestine Cake Club held its latest meeting at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, with each member bringing along a cake to share.

As Valentine's Day falls in February this month's theme encouraged bakers to pick the 'perfect couple' of ingredients to create a cookery match-made in heaven.

A white chocolate and raspberry Bundt was the example chosen by organiser Fionnuala Lawes, while others included peaches and cream, and chocolate and banana.

"We had some lovely cakes," said the 27-year-old from Furze Platt.

Clandestine Cake Clubs have been springing up around the country since 2010.

Each event has a theme, and its location remains a mystery until just days before.

Fionnuala, who is an accountant by day, set up the Windsor and Maidenhead branch last year, and it now has more than 20 members.

"It started as people I knew and then they brought friends and then word has spread," she said.

"It's a good way to pick up tips and inspiration."

She had previously joined the Reading branch, but it became so popular the club had to restrict the numbers of people attending.

One of her recipes was included in a cookbook compiled using ideas from cake clubs across the country, which was released on Valentine's Day.

New faces are always welcome at the club.

Email ccc-rbwm@live.co.uk or visit www.clandestinecakeclub.co.uk for details.