It’s all gravy for Staincliffe pie shop taking part in the Grand Départ

TOUR HONOUR The pies the limit for Emma Maude, who will be cooking up her unusual recipe pies for a stall at the Grand Départ. (d535a426)

It’s been a great few weeks for The Pie Shed – and owner Emma Maude will be hoping to top it off this weekend.

Emma only opened her new business in Green Lane, Staincliffe, last Monday, but she’s already been asked to have a stall in Leeds for the Grand Depart this Saturday. Up to 45,000 people are expected on the day.

They’re not your usual steak and kidney jobs – but her handmade pies have proved a hit. “It’s been busy every single day,” she said. Emma, of Healey Lane, Batley, trained in catering at Wakefield College before becoming a carer.

After saving up, the 31-year-old decided to go it alone and opened The Pie Shed, a coffee shop and bakehouse.

Her bank, Natwest, put her forward for a stall and she grabbed the chance.

“I’ve always loved baking,” she said.

“I’m going to make as many pies as I can possibly sell.

“I don’t think I’ll sleep on Thursday or Friday as I’ll be up all night making pies!”

Flavours include vegetable curry and barbecued brisket.

A Dewsbury couple are raring to go this Tour de France weekend. Sue Bodell and husband Alan have decorated their house in Bywell Close with official Grand Depart bunting, topped off with an old bike which they spray-painted yellow. They’re also hosting more than 10 cyclists from The Wirral in their home and garden. “We can’t wait for this weekend,” said Mrs Bodell, who will be watching all three stages of the Grand Depart.