A visually stunning shop display has been unveiled to commemorate Jude Bellingham’s breathtaking goal for England at Euro 2024 – and it’s made entirely of edible items.
The display, one of three installations celebrating the nation’s most joyous moments of 2024, recreates the Real Madrid star’s injury-time bicycle kick against Slovakia using only food.
Pret A Manger showcased the display at its New Street shop in Birmingham, close to Stourbridge, the hometown of the former Birmingham City forward.
Additionally, Pret A Manger’s Carnaby Street shop in London is honouring Sir David Attenborough’s 70-year television career, while its Manchester branch is paying tribute to local hero Keely Hodgkinson, who won gold for Team GB in the 800 metres at this summer’s Olympics.
Prop maker Andy Billett crafted the installations using items from Pret A Manger’s seasonal menu, including mince pies and gingerbread.
Katherine Bagshawe, Pret’s UK food & coffee director, stated: “We’re thrilled to be able to depict some of the most joyous moments that helped define 2024, as chosen by the nation.”
“With 25 per cent of respondents saying they associated joy with their favourite foods, we felt paying tribute through food was a fitting way to celebrate joyous moments.”
According to a survey, nearly half of Brits believe they will look back on this year fondly, with 22% describing 2024 as their most joyful year to date.
Brits allegedly bask in approximately four thrilling moments each month, with a third of those anticipating joy will increase in 2025.
Tributes for two local heroes lauded for their contributions will also be unveiled this week. Liverpool’s Paradise Street will stand as a place of honour for 65 year old Elizabeth Fearon, a dedicated volunteer at Toxteth Womens Centre.
Meanwhile, the North Bridge establishment in Edinburgh will commemorate 54 year old Shikha Ahuja, a senior welfare worker with Milan Senior Welfare Organisation.
Their efforts towards spreading cheer have been supported by The Pret Foundation, which is on a mission to combat hunger, poverty, and homelessness.
Encouraging customers to capture and share their closest Pret Christmas window display on social media using the hashtag #ShareTheJoy, the food and coffee retailer is keen on celebrating communal happiness.
Katherine Bagshawe, representing the brand, spoke out: “We’re delighted to share stories of remarkable individuals who make a real difference in both their communities and the nation.”