7 June 2016

BBC Radio York covered a Shavuot cheesecake competition at York Liberal Jewish Community.

The station’s Jonathan Cowap judged the event (pictured above), which was won by Yara Nuuman (junior) and Catriona Munster (senior).

Almost 40 members attended the evening, which was held at the home of York chair Ben Rich and his wife Rachael, and also included a short service led by Student Rabbi Deborah Blausten.

Speaking on BBC Radio York, Jonathan said: “Trying so many different cheesecakes in the space of 10 minutes isn’t a wholly sensible thing to do, but I found myself doing that as part of the Jewish festival of Shavuot.

“The winning adult cheesecake ironically, given that Shavuot is celebrated with dairy products, was a vegan recipe. Goodness me, it tasted marvellous!

“York’s Liberal Jewish Community really made me feel welcome. It was quite an evening and quite an experience.”

The broadcast featured an interview with Deborah about the meaning and traditions of Shavuot, as well as clips from the service. You can listen to it here (at 48:30).