Get ready to sink your teeth into a piece of local history! We are absolutely thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of a wonderful new photobook, 'Tunstall Tortillas'(Available to pre-order here), that shines a beautiful spotlight on something truly unique to our area: the legendary Oatcake and the brilliant folks who make them. 

 Launch Party: Saturday, December 6th!

We at Barewall are buzzing with excitement as we prepare to host the launch and signing event for this incredible documentary work by award-winning, Stoke-on-Trent-born photographer, David Fletcher.

A Story Two Years in the Making

What started as a mission to simply document the remaining oatcake shops quickly turned into something much bigger for David. Since 2023, he's been crisscrossing the city, capturing everything from long-standing family businesses still cooking on original stoves to exciting new entrepreneurial ventures.

"What I expected to be a record of a fading industry turned into something far more uplifting," David shares.

"I discovered a vibrant, thriving community full of life, humour and pride... It was inspiring to see young entrepreneurs joining the trade, as well as long-established family businesses still going strong."

The project beautifully captures the artisans, their workplaces, and the communities that keep this unique tradition alive. It's a true portrait of North Staffordshire identity!

The evocative title, 'Tunstall Tortillas', is even a nod to one of our area's most famous artistic sons, Arthur Berry (whose centenary we're also celebrating this year!), inspired by his famous poem, 'Ode to the Oatcake'.

 

The Oatcake Makers: Keeping the Tradition Alive

Despite the march of modernisation, our local oatcake makers are still deeply rooted in traditional, hand-crafted methods. They're thrilled to see their incredible, delicious craft documented for future generations!

• Paul Smith of Bucknall Oatcakes (the cover star of the book) says, "We’re proud to still use the original recipe, cooked on the original stoves, and hand-poured in the traditional (and proper!) way... This little shop has put us right at the heart of the community that has welcomed us with open arms."
  

• Dawn Marsh of May n Mar Laydezz Oatcakes, Tunstall, tells us, "Oatcake-making is sadly becoming a dying art as machines take over, but a few of us still hand-pour the traditional way. I always say if you find a perfectly round one, you’re very lucky."

• Andy & Jana Wilton of Oatbakers sum it up perfectly: "Photographing the remaining oatcake shops across Stoke-on-Trent is a brilliant way to record a moment in oatcake history, and we’re grateful to be part of it."
  
  

Join the Celebration: Launch & Signing Event

 

You're warmly invited to join us for a festive day celebrating our culture, food, and community.

When: Saturday, December 6th, 11am–3pm
Where: Barewall Art Gallery, 2-4 Market Place, Burslem, ST6 4AT

•  Welcome drinks to get started!

•  Meet and greet with photographer David Fletcher and get your copy signed.

•  Live performances by poet Nick Degg, including 'Oatcake Man' and Arthur Berry’s 'Ode to the Oatcake', from midday.

• Browse local makers and grab some perfect Christmas gifts, including work from local illustrator Kidda Kinsey and special Moorland Pottery oatcake-themed items.

Here is what Amanda, our director, has to say about the launch :

"David's photography wonderfully captures the life and character behind Stoke-on-Trent's oatcake shops. Visitors joining us can also explore our ‘A Sense of Place’ Arthur Berry exhibition and browse a wonderful selection of locally connected Christmas gifts."

This is the perfect way to celebrate our city's centenary year and support the brilliant local talent that makes Stoke-on-Trent so special. 

Ready to Get Your Copy?

The softback book ‘Tunstall Tortillas’ is a must-have for every Potteries enthusiast's bookshelf!

• Pre-Order Price: £20.00 (Pick it up signed at the event)

• After Launch Price: £25.00

➡️ Pre-Order Your Copy Here!

We can't wait to see you to celebrate! Do you have a favourite oatcake shop or oatcake filling? David's is the simple but classic Cheese and Bacon!

All Images © David Fletcher, 2025.