Marks & Spencer has launched a new miniature dessert that's a perfect snack for summer.
The supermarket has created a Percy Pig twist on one of the nation's most popular ice lollies.
The new snacks, launched a few weeks ago, feature a twirl of strawberry ice lolly and Percy Pig flavoured ice cream.
M&S's famous mascot apparently tastes of a fruity mix of raspberry, strawberry, cherry and grape.
Percy Pig mini curly tails. Credit: Instagram, @newfoodsuk
The Mini Curly Tails lollies have landed just in time for the heatwave that's set to scorch much of the UK this weekend.
M&S said: "FEELING HOT HOT HOT!? Percy Pig to the rescue with his new Mini Curly Tails! 🤠Made with Percy Pig™ flavoured ice cream and a strawberry fruit ice swirl, they're perfect for this week's warm weather!!"
The lollies are inspired by the original Percy Pig sweets, which M&S sells 16 million packets of every year - the equivalent of 10 Percy Pig sweets every second.
Several people have pointed out the similarities to another popular ice lolly, with one saying: "Look identical to the Walls Twister."
But most just can't wait to get their hands on them, saying: "omg we need to get these I don't make the rules."
Model Danielle Lloyd said: "I need to try these!!!!"
Since M&S started treating Percy Pig as a brand and a character, he's got married (Penny), travelled the world, and had piglets - with new product launches at every stage.
Meagan Hempenstall, Percy Pig brand marketing manager at M&S, said: "He is the most famous M&S brand and has a very loyal following.
"That is especially true since we brought Percy to life on social media last year. Percy has long had an organic following on social media, but last year we launched his official Instagram account, and he made his debut on TikTok."
The Percy Pig Mini Curly Tails ice lollies are in M&S stores now.
Featured image: The Hoot
Eats
‘This recognition belongs to you’ – Leeds restaurant added to the Michelin Guide just months after opening
A newcomer to the Leeds foodie scene has been added to the coveted Michelin Guide.
You may remember back in April when a Leeds icon was reborn under a different name.
The Smithfield took over the site that was home to The Reliance for more than two decades, and it's safe to say it exceeded expectations.
The team transformed the site to its former glory, taking the site's exterior back to its memorable dark red. But the efforts to recapture the essence of the iconic old venue go way beyond that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Smithfield, a collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, offers simple dining with seasonal food and natural wines.
It's the sort of place where you can rock up for a plate and a glass people watching through the huge window on North Street, or really get stuck into a sharing pie and chips with friends on a Saturday afternoon.
Either way we love it, and it seems we're not the only ones as The Smithfield has been added to the Michelin Guide just five months after opening.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Announcing the great news to Instagram, The Smithfield said: "We’re very pleased and grateful to have been included in the Michelin Guide.
"To get this kind of recognition so early in our journey is a real honour, and one we certainly don’t take for granted.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Thank you to our wonderful guests for your continued support. Also, huge thanks to our brilliant team. The Smithfield is what it is because of your hard work, enthusiasm, energy and diligence. This recognition belongs to you.
"We’re just getting started, and our focus remains the same: creating a welcoming space for our community, serving food and drink we’re proud of, championing great British and local produce, and contributing our small part towards Leeds’ brilliant hospitality scene. The Smithfield."
Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards
Clementine Hall
Betty's Tea Room has been named among the nation's best by experts.
If you live in Yorkshire, then you will know about Betty's Tea Room.
Its a real institution at this point, known for their exceptional service, exquisite food, beautiful window displays and the iconic cake trolley.
We all know their products are top tier, but they've just had even more recognition at the 2026 Great British Awards.
Announced in London, Betty's won gold for their Yorkshire Shortbread Biscuits which were judged by Cherish Finden, internationally renowned pastry chef.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Judging in the Sweet Biscuits category was led by Cherish Finden, best known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.
She said: "A well-made traditional shortbread with a lovely buttery flavour, balanced sweetness and a subtle touch of salt that enhances the overall taste. The delicate, crumbly texture makes it particularly pleasant to eat.
"Overall, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying shortbread. I could eat the whole packet with a cup of tea."
Gavin Johnson, head of bakery operations at Bettys Craft Bakery, said: "We are incredibly proud that our Yorkshire Shortbread has been awarded a Gold Medal at The Great British Food Awards 2026.
"This recognition reflects the enduring values of Bettys, the finest ingredients, best quality, traditional craftsmanship and a deep connection to our Yorkshire roots.
"Most importantly, the award belongs to the talented bakery team, whose skill, passion and care go into making our Yorkshire shortbread every day.
"Their commitment to excellence helps ensure that our products reflect the heritage, quality and attention to detail that customers have associated with Bettys for generations."
Daisy Jackson -
12th July 2022 
