According to legend, a 19th-century Kendal confectioner invented Kendal Mint Cake by accident in the Cumbrian town.

Little did he realise the outsized role it was to take in mountaineering history – including fuelling the first ascent of Mount Everest.

Sir Ranulph Fiennes shares fond memories of his own expeditions - and key role the cake played for him.

Sheila McClennon with another choice slice of five British sweet treats and the stories behind them.

Producer: Libby Cross

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2004. Show less