Midlands dishes fast becoming 'endangered food species'

Many of the delicacies that originated in the Midlands before spreading across the rest of the UK are on the verge of extinction.

That's according to a new poll released by Love British Food Fortnight.

The poll by Co-opquizzed locals on their knowledge of some of the region's most famous and historically significant dishes.

While the Bakewell Tart, Faggots, Pork Scratchings, Melton Mowbray Pie and Staffordshire Oatcakes are still going strong.

The same can't be said for some of the more obscure foods on the list...

Only 2% know of the Coventry God Cake

A tradition unique to the city of Coventry possibly dating back to at least the 14th century. God Cakes were presented at the beginning of the year by Godparents to their Godchildren along with a blessing for the year ahead. It'd believed that the wealthier the Godparent, the bigger the cake!

Only 1% know of the Shropshire Soul Cake

A little like hot-cross buns, the cakes were usually filled with allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger or other sweet spices, raisins or currants. The practice of giving and eating soul cakes is often seen as the origin of modern trick-or-treating.

Only 3% know of the Malvern Pudding

It is a baked dish made with apples or other seasonal fruit and custard although variations exist. The creamy taste is characterised by apples - for which Worcestershire is famous.

Only 3% know of the Shropshire Fidget Pie

Traditionally Shropshire's best-known dish, Fidget Pie was in danger of becoming a distant memory. It's made from a combination of ham, apples, onions, cider and cheese.

The research also shows that while many still have traditional recipes - most are giving them a modern twist.

But this could mean that a couple of generations down the line these traditional family dishes might be almost unrecognisable from the originals.

Whether that is a good or bad thing? Well the proof is surely in the eating!