THE region’s bakers braved a torrential downpour yesterday to bring their campaign against the “pasty tax” to Downing Street.

Hundreds of bakery workers held a Save Our Savouries rally in London to protest against the bid to charge VAT on hot takeaway snacks proposed in Chancellor George Osborne’s Budget.

The demonstration, organised by North-East bakery firm Greggs and the National Association of Master Bakers, saw about 500 demonstrators wearing chef’s hats take to the streets of Whitehall.

They presented a petition against the proposed tax signed by half a million people, including 40,000 of Greggs’ North-East customers.

Speaking through a loudhailer, Ken McMeikan, chief executive of Newcastle-based Greggs, told protestors: “The gravity of the situation that faces our industry must not and cannot be underestimated.

“For generations, these bakers have strived to create a bakery industry that is loved by customers for the bakers’ skills, affordability and delicious produce. We have to say no to higher prices.”

He added: “Customers and bakers are livid about this proposed tax. I cannot think of a worse time for the Government to consider forcing ordinary, hard-working people to pay 20 per cent more for popular, everyday food, especially with the news yesterday that the country is now officially in a double dip recession.”

In driving rain, the baking representatives were joined by Cornish MPs to present the petition, in 21 boxes, to Number 10.

Last week, a Labour Party move to block the tax was defeated despite a revolt by 14 coalition backbenchers – nine Tories and five Lib Dems.

A Treasury spokeswoman said: “The Budget closes loopholes and addresses anomalies to ensure a level playing field. In fact, VAT is already paid on over 90 per cent of all hot takeaway food.”